Philippines and Saudi Arabia: Strengthening Ties for a Shared Future
President Marcos recently reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to deepening its longstanding ties with Saudi Arabia. During a farewell meeting with outgoing Saudi Ambassador Hisham Sultan Abdullah Alqahtani, president Marcos expressed his gratitude for the ambassador’s contributions during his tenure, highlighting the productive period that paved the way for closer cooperation. “We keep going and we have begun many things as well just during my time here as President,” Marcos stated, emphasizing the desire to further strengthen the partnership.He also acknowledged the significant progress made during the ambassador’s time in the Philippines, stating, “This is all happened under your watch.” President Marcos pointed to his discussions with Saudi crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud and othre officials as evidence of the strong relationship between the two nations. He praised the “very good partnership” that has been established,particularly recognizing Saudi Arabia’s crucial role in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and its support for peace efforts in Mindanao. “We are now getting closer and closer to actually having an autonomous region with elective parliament members,” Marcos shared,outlining the progress being made towards a lasting peace in Mindanao.He expressed his determination to ensure the success of this endeavor,acknowledging the invaluable support Saudi Arabia has provided.“It’s so significant now that we do that. But again, not just the OIC but also Saudi Arabia has been so supportive of everything that we have been trying to do,” he added. Ambassador Alqahtani expressed his own recognition for the opportunity to serve in the philippines,highlighting the significant contributions Filipinos have made to Saudi Arabia’s advancement over the past four decades.“We will not forget them. The development there in Saudi Arabia came with the Philippines also. It’s a common relation, common interest together with the Philippines,”
## Philippines and Saudi Arabia: A partnership for Peace and Progress
**Archyde:** Mr. President, your recent departure meeting with Saudi Ambassador Alqahtani highlighted the profound relationship between the Philippines and Saudi Arabia. Can you elaborate on the key aspects of this partnership and its meaning for both nations?
**President Marcos:** Indeed, our relationship with Saudi Arabia is cemented by years of cooperation and mutual understanding. We’ve witnessed significant strides in recent times, most notably regarding the peace process in Mindanao. The support we’ve received from Saudi Arabia,both through the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and independently,has been invaluable. We’re determined to achieve lasting peace in Mindanao, and Saudi Arabia’s support will be crucial as we move towards an autonomous region with elected parliament members.
**Archyde:** You’ve also mentioned the productive discussions held with Crown Prince Mohammed bin salman Al Saud.
What specific areas are being explored for future collaboration between the two countries?
**President Marcos:** Our discussions covered a wide range of topics,but economic cooperation and trade certainly stood out. Saudi Arabia is a strategic partner in the region, and we see vast potential for growth in various sectors. We aim to strengthen trade ties, attract Saudi investments in the Philippines, and explore new opportunities for our people to work together.
**Archyde:** Ambassador Alqahtani expressed his appreciation for the contributions of filipinos to Saudi Arabia’s progress. How does this reciprocal exchange of skills and knowledge contribute to the strength of your bilateral relationship?
**President Marcos:** It’s truly a testament to the strong bond between our people. Filipinos working in Saudi Arabia have made significant contributions to the nation’s progress, and we are grateful for the opportunities they have found ther. This mutual exchange of talent and expertise fosters a sense of shared responsibility and strengthens the foundation of our partnership.
**archyde:** Looking ahead, what message would you like to convey to Filipinos in Saudi Arabia and those interested in exploring opportunities there?
**President Marcos:** We are committed to nurturing and expanding this relationship.We see a bright future for collaboration between our two nations. To Filipinos in Saudi Arabia, your contributions are deeply valued, and we are working tirelessly to ensure your well-being. To those seeking opportunities, I encourage you to explore the possibilities that exist within this strong and growing partnership.
**Archyde:**
The Philippines and Saudi Arabia’s commitment to peace and progress is evident. Considering the complex geopolitical landscape, how crucial do you believe this bi-lateral relationship is, not only for the two nations but also for the broader regional stability?
## Archyde Interview: President Marcos on Philippines-Saudi Arabia Ties
**Archyde:** Mr. President, your recent departure meeting with Saudi Ambassador Alqahtani highlighted the profound relationship between the Philippines and Saudi Arabia. Could you elaborate on the key aspects of this partnership and how it benefits both nations?
**President Marcos:** Certainly. The Philippines and Saudi Arabia share a longstanding and multifaceted relationship built on mutual respect and shared aspirations for peace and progress.
Ambassador Alqahtani’s tenure has been especially fruitful, marked by significant advancements in our cooperation across various sectors. We’ve seen a deepening of our economic ties, a strengthening of our people-to-people connections, and, crucially, a shared commitment to promoting peace andStability, particularly in Mindanao.
**Archyde:** Your discussions with crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud and other Saudi officials seem to indicate a strong rapport between the two nations. What are some of the key outcomes of these high-level engagements?
**President Marcos:** Indeed, my discussions with Saudi leadership have been very productive. We share a common understanding of the importance of fostering stability and progress in the region. Saudi Arabia, as a key member of the Association of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), has been instrumental in supporting our peace efforts in Mindanao. Their commitment to a lasting and inclusive peace in the region is deeply valued.
**Archyde:** You mentioned the progress being made towards an autonomous region in Mindanao with an elected parliament. How significant is Saudi Arabia’s support in this endeavor?
**President Marcos:** Saudi Arabia’s support has been invaluable. We are now making significant strides towards achieving a lasting peace in Mindanao, and their backing is crucial to this success.It’s a testament to the strength of our partnership and their commitment to fostering peace and stability not only in the Philippines but in the wider region.
**Archyde:** Ambassador Alqahtani has spoken warmly about the contributions Filipinos have made to Saudi Arabia’s development. What are your thoughts on the role of the Filipino diaspora in strengthening relations between our two countries?
**President Marcos:** Filipinos working in Saudi Arabia play a vital role in bridging our two nations.
They contribute immensely to Saudi Arabia’s economy and society while sending remittances back home that support their families and communities. These personal connections forge strong bonds between our peoples and contribute to the overall strength of our relationship.
**Archyde:** Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of Philippines-Saudi Arabia relations?
**President Marcos:** I am optimistic about the future of our partnership. We will continue to build upon the strong foundation we have laid, expanding our cooperation in areas of mutual interest, from trade and investment to education and cultural exchange. The Philippines and Saudi Arabia are committed to a shared future of peace, progress, and prosperity.
