The Philippines will welcome New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters for an official visit on Monday, June 10, to strengthen bilateral and diplomatic ties, as well as discuss their interest in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
(New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters/X)
In a statement on Sunday, June 9, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said that Peters will meet and discuss with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo.
“The visit underscores the longstanding and robust diplomatic ties between the Philippines and New Zealand and aims to further enhance cooperation and collaboration across various fields,” the statement read.
Both foreign affairs chiefs are scheduled to hold a joint press conference, during which they will witness the signing ceremony of the agreement between the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) of the Philippines and the New Zealand Trade Enterprise on Ease of Doing Business.
The visit, the DFA stressed, is “particularly significant” as both countries will mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in July 2026.
“It reaffirms the commitment of the Philippines and New Zealand to work closely together in advancing mutual interests and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region,” it added.
The discussions between Manalo and Peters will focus on enhancing bilateral relations and exploring opportunities to deepen existing cooperation on a wide range of topics, such as defense, economy, renewable energy, and people-to-people ties.
The officials will also discuss regional developments of mutual concern to both countries.
“Secretary Manalo looks forward to productive discussions and fruitful outcomes that will further deepen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between New Zealand and the Philippines,” the DFA said.