Marcos eyes to do more with Ireland, Finland, EU envoys
President Marcos is looking forward to “doing much more” with new foreign ambassadors designated to the Philippines.
Marcos made the statement as he met with newly-designated ambassadors from Ireland, Finland, and the European Union in Malacañang on Wednesday, Sept. 25, during the envoys' presentation of credentials.
Finland Ambassador Saija Nurminen expressed the interest of the Finnish government in deepening relations with the Philippines on labor mobility, covering both training and education opportunities.
Marcos, for his part, thanked the Finnish government for welcoming the Filipinos and expanding their opportunities in Finland.
“Your government has always been very welcoming and has always been very sympathetic to our nationals. So, for that we are grateful,” he said.
As of April 2024, there are around 8,456 Filipinos residing in Finland.
In meeting EU Ambassador-designate Mariomassimo Santoro, the President cited the efforts of EU and the Philippines in further strengthening areas of cooperation.
“We have already achieved a great deal between the EU and the Philippines and I look forward to doing much more in the time that you are here with us,” he said.
The EU currently ranks fourth among the Philippines’ development partners for Official Development Assistance (ODA) grants with eight ongoing grants valued at $221 million.
Santoro thanked Marcos for receiving him at the Palace and hailed the Philippines’ “excellent work” in coordinating with the EU.
“I am a concrete witness of the excellent work that the Philippines has done in their capacity [as] coordinator in the relationship with Europe,” he said.
The Chief Executive also welcomed Irish Ambassador-designate Emma Hickey. During their meeting, Marcos noted that while the Philippines and Ireland share a non-traditional ties, he said the role of continuing engagements is becoming more significant.
“Ireland is literally halfway around the world from the Philippines. And it’s not what you would consider a traditional trading partner with the Philippines,” he said.
“The world has changed to a great deal. Such physical distances seemed to have lost their importance. It’s necessary now to engage every part of the world,” he added.
The Philippines and Ireland celebrated its 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations in July.