Kazan: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Russian President Vladimir Putin are poised to engage in discussions concerning food and energy security during a bilateral meeting at the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan, Russia, scheduled for June 17 to 18. This meeting marks an important milestone coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Russia.

According to Philippines News Agency, ASEAN 2026 Philippines spokesperson and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant Secretary Dominic Xavier Imperial stated that the dialogue will largely focus on issues crucial to both nations. "The meeting will most likely focus on food security and energy security-that is mutually important for both countries, for the Philippines and Russia," Imperial conveyed during a briefing at the Palace. The leaders are also expected to discuss broader regional and international developments impacting global food and energy supplies.

The bilateral meeting will occur alongside the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit, where President Marcos, serving as the ASEAN Chair, will co-chair discussions with President Putin. This event celebrates the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-Russia dialogue relations. The DFA highlighted that the summit's agenda includes reviewing the ASEAN-Russia strategic partnership and exploring cooperation in multiple domains such as energy and food security, science and technology, trade and investment, tourism, education, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people relations.

Imperial noted that this trip marks President Marcos' inaugural visit to Russia in his capacity as President. He further mentioned that the summit is anticipated to adopt significant documents, including the Kazan Declaration 2026 and the ASEAN-Russia Comprehensive Plan of Action 2026-2030, which will outline a roadmap for future collaborative efforts.

Beyond the primary focus on food and energy security, discussions between Marcos and Putin may extend to areas like tourism, education, science and technology, and cultural cooperation, as both countries aim to strengthen bilateral ties. The Philippines and Russia, having established diplomatic relations in 1976, are commemorating the 50th anniversary of this partnership throughout the year.