Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. takes a stroll with US President Joe Biden at the White House. (Photo from the President Communications Office)
WASHINGTON D.C., United States — Amid the challenges being faced in the current times, US President Joe Biden said he could not think of a better partner to have than President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
He issued the remark in his opening statement before the two leaders held a bilateral meeting in the White House.
“You know, when we met in New York last year, you told me that — that a strong alliance has to continue, quote — I’m using your phrase — “to evolve as we face the challenges of this new century.” And we are facing new challenges. And I can’t think of any better partner to have than you,” Biden told Marcos.
Biden said among areas of cooperation that the US and the Philippines have are climate change, clean energy, and shared democratic values, workers’ rights and the rule of law.
“Together, we’re deepening our economic cooperation, which is going to continue to deepen and I think is mutually beneficial,” he said.
The US President said he will send a “first-of-its-kind” presidential trade and investment mission to the Philippines.
Biden also reaffirmed the US’ “ironclad” commitment to the defense of the Philippines, including the South China Sea.
He added that the US will continue to support the Philippines’ military modernization goals.
“Our countries not only share a strong partnership, we share a deep friendship — one that has been enriched by millions of Filipino Americans in the communities all across the United States of America,” the US President said.