Department of Foreign Affairs building INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines – In an effort to boost bilateral relations, Canada has designated the Philippines as a “country of focus” or a priority beneficiary of its international development assistance program, the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
The DFA welcomed the move, saying it “illuminates the excellent bilateral relations between the Philippines and Canada.”
“The special designation as a Country of Focus also holds the promise of greater two-way bilateral trade and investment flows, and the designation also manifests an alignment in foreign policy, extending to various security, economic, socio-cultural and people-to-people interests,” the DFA said.
It added that the Filipino people would always remember how Canada came to the aid of those affected by Super Typhoon “Yolanda” (Haiyan) that pummeled the Visayas in November 2013.
It said the Philippines looked forward on furthering the country’s goals for inclusive and sustainable growth and development with the help of Canada.
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