President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. sees opportunities to further expand Philippine-Spanish relations as the two countries prepare to mark 80 years of diplomatic relations in 2027.
Marcos expressed optimism about strengthening bilateral ties during the presentation of credentials of Spain’s Ambassador-designate Xavier Martí Martí in Malacañang on Wednesday.
“The centuries-old relationship between our two countries is unmatched in any other in the history of the Philippines, and I believe also in Spain… It is as deep as any relationship can be between two countries,” Marcos told the Spanish envoy.
“Still, the modern world presents us with many opportunities to enlarge and expand the scope of that relationship,” he added.
Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines started in the 16th century and lasted for over 300 years, significantly shaping the country’s religion, culture, economy, and politics.
The President also expressed readiness to work with the new Spanish envoy in identifying ways to further strengthen the partnership.
“I look forward to the time that you are here with us as ambassador to find new ways to strengthen the relationship between our two countries,” he said.
For his part, Martí Martí conveyed the regards of King Felipe VI and reaffirmed Spain’s commitment to deepen its ties with the Philippines.
He said 2027 would mark both the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 25th anniversary of Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day.
The Spanish envoy said Madrid seeks to expand economic and investment ties, strengthen defense and security cooperation, deepen bilateral dialogue, and uphold a rules-based international order.
He also cited cultural, educational and people-to-people exchanges as key pillars of the two countries’ longstanding partnership.
Martí Martí joined Spain’s diplomatic service in 2006 and has served in Peru, Brazil and Kenya. His appointment to the Philippines is his first posting in the Asia-Pacific region and his first assignment as head of a diplomatic mission. (PNA)
