President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on November 26, 2024, during a working visit to the United Arab Emirates. The meeting marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations and highlighted the expanding partnership beyond traditional sectors.
The leaders discussed key agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation in various fields, including cultural exchange, energy transition, artificial intelligence, legal frameworks, and investment collaboration through the UAE Ministry of Investment and the Philippines’ Maharlika Investment Fund. They also agreed to implement a visa waiver for holders of diplomatic, special, and official passports.
Recognizing opportunities for further collaboration, both nations pledged to explore initiatives in security, counterterrorism, science and technology, and environmental efforts, such as reducing plastic waste in the Pasig River. The Philippines expressed interest in joining the UAE-Brazil initiative on culture-based climate action.
President Marcos extended gratitude for the UAE’s support during crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and acknowledged the Filipino community’s vital role in the UAE’s development. Both leaders emphasized the importance of concluding the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to enhance economic ties.
