PH, UAE leaders tackle economic cooperation

WORKING VISIT President Marcos meets with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, president of the United Arab Emirates, at Al Shati Palace in Abu Dhabi, on Tuesday. The two leaders vowed stronger ties on trade and other economic areas. —Agence France-Presse

ABU DHABI, UAE — In his first visit to the United Arab Emirates, President Marcos met with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Tuesday as they vowed to deepen cooperation between their nations in trade, sustainability, and other economic areas.

The two leaders emphasized their dedication to strengthening bilateral ties for the benefit of their peoples, as they marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between their countries, which was established on Aug. 19, 1974.

UAE’s assistance

Marcos is in Abu Dhabi for a one-day working visit. He conveyed his gratitude to Sheikh Mohamed for UAE’s assistance to the Philippines, including the arrest of suspected sex traffickers.

He also thanked the Emirati royal for the training that his country provided to members of the Philippine National Police, and for his recent pardon of 143 Filipinos jailed for minor offenses.

The President also cited the UAE’s humanitarian aid to survivors of the series of storms that hit the Philippines.

Around 700,000 Filipinos are working or staying in the UAE, according to the Presidential Communications Office.

Message for environment

Before his departure, Marcos issued a video message on Monday for activities in Makati marking the conclusion of Climate Change Consciousness Week, which began on Nov. 19.

“We are continuously called to press on so that the next generations can still enjoy the lush and bountiful Philippines that we have inherited,” the President said in his video message, as he highlighted the importance of Climate Change Consciousness Week as a platform to encourage appreciation for the country’s rich natural resources.

“May this week pave the way for such an appreciation so that we can act accordingly and adapt to the changing demands of both nature and our citizens,” Marcos said.

Climate Change Consciousness Week was established by the Climate Change Commission through Proclamation No. 1667 dated Nov. 18, 2008. —with a report from Julie M. Aurelio