Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. extended his congratulations to the re-elected Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for his victory in the federal election. In a video message shared on his official X account, Marcos praised Albanese's leadership and the trust it has garnered from the Australian people.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos emphasized the strengthened ties between the Philippines and Australia, highlighting their shared values and genuine friendship. He expressed eagerness for a potential visit and future discussions with Albanese, mentioning their recent elevation of bilateral relations to strategic partners aimed at fostering a cooperative and prosperous future for both nations.
The Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership was signed by Marcos and Albanese during a bilateral meeting at Malaca±an Palace in Manila on September 8, 2023. This development marks Albanese as the first Australian Prime Minister to visit the Philippines since 2003.
During Albanese's visit, agreements were made between Canberra and Manila, including a memorandum of understanding on a work and holiday visa arrangement to facilitate cultural exchange for young people. Another MOU focused on cooperation for soil health strategy, involving joint research, capacity-building, expert exchanges, and policy support.