PH, UK to further develop bilateral partnerships
The Philippines and the United Kingdom (UK) expressed mutual interest in further developing their partnerships in renewable energy, the creative industry, and digitalization.
During a meeting with the UK’s Minister of State at the Department for International Trade Greg Hands, Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual endorsed a work plan to strengthen further and set the direction of ASEAN and the UK’s economic relations.
The work plan builds on existing initiatives and possible cooperation programs between ASEAN and the UK in the areas of sustainable growth, infrastructure development, and digital transformation.
Pascual also represented the Philippines at the 21st ASEAN Economic Community Council (AECC) meeting, where he welcomed the progress made by ASEAN in facilitating economic integration in the region, especially in the areas of trade facilitation, movement of natural persons, digital transformation, and sustainable economic development.
He also stressed the expansion of the list of essential goods to cover vaccines and vital supplies and equipment to address supply chain resiliency and connectivity, as well as the substantial conclusion of the negotiations for the Protocol to Amend the ASEAN Agreement on Movement of Natural Persons which is seen to facilitate the entry and exit of working professionals in the region.
Pascual’s meeting with the UK delegation happened on the sidelines of the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia last November 10.
