More high-level visits by British officials are expected in “another bumper year” for the Philippines-United Kingdom relations, British Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils announced.

British Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils (British Embassy Manila screenshot) 

In a video posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Jan. 1, the British envoy said she’s “happy” to spend the New Year in the Philippines.
 

“It’s going to be another bumper year for the UK and the Philippines with several high-level visits to the Philippines from the UK and in just the coming months, our annual UK-Philippine Strategic Dialogue in London,” she shared.
 

“The relationship between the UK and the Philippines has never been stronger,” the ambassador added.
 

But while she’s looking forward to an “exciting new year,” Beaufils underscored the importance of reflecting on the two countries’ achievements in the past year.
 

She shared that in October, the Great British Festival, which showcased British universities and businesses, was held in celebration of the UK-Philippines Friendship Day.
 

The three-day visit by UK Foreign Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West to talk about climate and biodiversity, maritime security, and economic growth “was one of a number of high-level visits across the year, sharing best practice and driving forward our mutual cooperation.”
 

The envoy noted that there were also “successful trade missions” from the UK on defense, health care, food, and renewable energy.
 

Similarly, Beaufils said the UK was “proud” to welcome Philippine delegations to UK that covered a range of priorities, including an economic briefing from Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Ralph Recto.
 

“Together, we’ve laid the groundwork for continued growth and success this year,” she furthered.