President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. concluded a productive series of engagements on the sidelines of the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, underscoring the Philippines’ commitment to deepening strategic partnerships with key dialogue partners.
In a significant meeting with the President of the European Council, António Costa, President Marcos secured the European Union’s full commitment and support for the Philippines’ forthcoming ASEAN Chairship in 2026.
The two leaders held substantive discussions emphasizing the importance of continued engagement and collaboration in trade, while jointly reaffirming their mutual commitment to multilateralism and strengthening the international rules-based order.
President Marcos also held his inaugural bilateral meeting with Japan’s newly elected Prime Minister, Takaichi Sanae, personally extending his congratulations to the new head of state.
The meeting highlighted forward-looking cooperation, with both leaders anticipating the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan in 2026.
President Marcos specifically noted the deepening cooperation in the defense and security sector, drawing attention to the imminent entry into force of the landmark Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) in September 2025. They further underscored the strategic importance of the Philippines–United States–Japan Trilateral Cooperation as a cornerstone for regional peace, stability, and development.
“These high-level engagements confirm that the Philippines remains a proactive and vital partner in the global community,” President Marcos stated. “Our strengthened relationships with the EU and Japan are essential pillars for achieving our goals of a peaceful, prosperous, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.”
