British diplomat hails growing UK-PH relations

MANILA, Philippines–Relations between the Philippines and the United Kingdom has been expanding in recent years with the growth of bilateral trade and tourism exchange between the two countries, a top British diplomat said on Wednesday.

British Chargé d’ Affaires to Manila Trevor Lewis called 2012 “a banner year” for Philippine-UK relations as the Embassy geared for the commemoration of the Philippine-British Friendship Day on Oct. 20.

“This has been a banner year in Philippine-British relations. Highlights have included President Aquino visiting the UK, bilateral trade increasing as well as strong growth in the number of visitors.  Of special importance to me was the UK being able to support the Mindanao peace negotiations as a member of the International Contact Group,” said Lewis.

The UK was among countries in the ICG that observed negotiations between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The two parties recently signed a framework agreement paving the way for the creation of a Bangsamoro.

“I believe bilateral relations will continue to go from strength to strength with our countries working ever more closely together to deliver peace, understanding, growth and prosperity for the peoples of the United Kingdom and the Philippines,” he added.

UK is one of the country’s largest trade partners, with bilateral trade amounting to around $2 billion. It has also been a leading development partner, with exchanges on education and culture, interfaith understanding, and capacity-building programs on disaster preparedness and combating terrorism and transnational crime.

Earlier, the European Union hailed its growing partnership with the Philippines, noting reciprocal high-level visits between the Philippines and European countries.