The visit of British Minister of State Hugo Swire of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is a “reiteration” of the United Kingdom policy to reinvigorate its engagement with emerging countries in Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines, which the UK considers an “emerging power,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said Tuesday.
Swire’s visit is also seen as promoting bilateral trade and investment, and highlighting the importance of the forward momentum of the Mindanao peace process, particularly the UK’s active involvement in the International Contact Group, the DFA added.
On Tuesday, Swire met with President Aquino and discussed, among other issues, the UK’s role in the Mindanao peace process and heightened economic cooperation. Jerome Aning