Russia is looking to deepen cooperation with the Philippines in key sectors, including energy, agriculture, tourism, and information technology, as the two countries celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov made the statement in a video message released by the Russian Foreign Ministry on June 2, marking the golden anniversary of formal diplomatic ties between Moscow and Manila.

Lavrov said both countries continue to show interest in maintaining political dialogue and expanding practical cooperation despite current global challenges.

"Importantly, despite the current situation in world affairs, there is a mutual interest among our peoples in maintaining political dialogue and expanding practical cooperation, including in such promising areas as energy, information technology, agriculture, and tourism," he said.

Lavrov said the anniversary provides an opportunity not only to celebrate past achievements but also to chart the future direction of bilateral relations.

"I am convinced that bilateral cooperation will continue to expand and deepen for the benefit of the peoples of our countries," he said.

Russia and the Philippines formally established diplomatic relations on June 2, 1976, during the first Marcos administration, laying the foundation for five decades of political, economic, and cultural engagement between the two nations.

Lavrov also reiterated Russia's role as a supplier of energy resources and food products in Southeast Asia.

"Taking this opportunity, I would like to reaffirm that Russia has been and remains a reliable supplier of energy resources and food products to all countries of Southeast Asia," he said.

The Russian diplomat said bilateral cooperation has continued to grow through parliamentary exchanges, interagency contacts, regional partnerships, and tourism and humanitarian exchanges.

Lavrov said Russia is prepared to continue working with the Philippines at the United Nations and other international platforms.

He said such cooperation could contribute to what he described as a "more just multipolar world order" and help address global challenges in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter.

"We are ready for further coordination of efforts in the United Nations and other platforms in the interests of forming a more just multipolar world order," he said.

The Russian foreign minister also highlighted the upcoming summit in Kazan marking the 35th anniversary of Russia-ASEAN relations this month.

He noted that the Philippines currently serves as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Chair and was among the founding members of the regional bloc.

Lavrov said Russia remains interested in deepening its strategic partnership with ASEAN, including efforts to promote regional security and broader cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.

Note: Lavrov’s message was delivered in Russian and was translated and cross-checked using three different AI tools.