President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday congratulated re-elected Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for his “resounding” federal election win.

“To my friend, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, on your resounding victory, congratulations! This renewed mandate speaks volumes of the trust and confidence your people have in your leadership,” Marcos said in a video message uploaded on his official X account.

“And I have no doubt you shall carry it forward with the same resolve and vision that you have long defined in your public service,” he added.

Marcos said the ties between the two countries have grown stronger, anchored “not just in same values but in genuine friendship.”

“Perhaps, this is a sign that it’s time for another visit. I look forward to our next conversation, whether it’s over a flat white down under or a rich cup of tsokolate (chocolate) here in Old Manila,” he said.

In September 2023, the Philippines and Australia elevated their relationship to strategic partners to have a deeper collaboration in a wide range of areas aimed at bringing a “more dynamic, cooperative, and prosperous future” to both nations.

The Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership between the Philippines and Australia was signed by Marcos and Albanese following their bilateral meeting at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Sept. 8, 2023.

Albanese is the first Australian Prime Minister to visit the Philippines since 2003.

During his visit to the Philippines, Canberra and Manila signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on a work and holiday visa arrangement to provide an avenue for young people to learn about each country’s cultures through tourism.

Another MOU was also signed on cooperation to co-develop initiatives supporting soil health strategy through joint research, capacity-building, experts and knowledge exchange, and science-based support to policy. (PNA)