The Philippines wants to enhance bilateral relations with Sweden and Egypt, as the newly appointed ambassadors of both countries presented their credentials to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday.

President Marcos made this statement during separate meetings with Swedish Ambassador-designate Anna Ferry and Egyptian Ambassador-designate Nader Nabil Zaki at Malacañang.

Ferry informed the President that Sweden views the Philippines as a “priority partner.”

He stressed that both countries share common values, including respect for human rights, the upholding of democracy, and the pursuit of progress.

Ferry said Sweden supports the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the freedom of navigation.

The Philippines and Sweden established diplomatic relations on Jan. 17, 1947. Since then, the two countries have cooperated briskly in trade and investments.

In 2023, investments from Sweden to the Philippines reached USD11.81 million (PHP684.79 million), up from USD5.74 million in 2022.

In the same year, Sweden became the Philippines’ 41st trading partner, the 45th export market, and the 38th import supplier.

“You come in a particularly auspicious time when the development of relations between our two countries have grown significantly,” Marcos told Ferry.

Meanwhile, Zaki said Cairo is committed to strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing trade and investments, and promoting cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

The Philippines and Egypt established formal diplomatic relations on March 3, 1946. This year, both countries will celebrate their 79th year of diplomatic ties.

The Philippines and Egypt have education, cultural cooperation, and scientific and technical cooperation agreements.

President Marcos hoped that Zaki’s stay in the country will be “constructive and productive,” similar to the experiences of his predecessors. (PNA)