Beijing: The Philippines intends to sustain efforts to further develop trade and people-to-people exchanges with China as the two countries commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations, Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz said. 'While there are maritime-related issues between the two countries, these challenges are not the entirety of our relations,' he said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Thursday.
According to Philippines News Agency, FlorCruz emphasized the importance of focusing on positive aspects of the bilateral relationship, such as people-to-people exchanges, which are a highlight in this year's commemorative activities. He reiterated China's role as a valued economic partner to Manila, being its largest trading partner. FlorCruz expressed a desire to introduce more Filipino products to China and to enhance trade in services, particularly in tourism, to showcase the beauty of the Philippines.
Trade between the Philippines and China reached USD42.21 billion or 21.04 percent of the total trade value for 2024. FlorCruz noted the presence of major Philippine companies in China, such as Liwayway, SM, Jollibee, Aboitiz, San Miguel Corp., Robinson, and Metrobank, as evidence of the vast opportunities in China for Philippine businesses.
Beyond trade and cultural exchanges, FlorCruz pledged to continue engaging China on priority areas including food security, infrastructure, and green technology. He highlighted the Philippines' potential role as an entry point for projects in renewable energy, telecommunications infrastructure, and other innovative sectors.
The formal diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China were established on June 9, 1975. FlorCruz remarked on the historic bonds of friendship and kinship between the two nations, hoping to build strong bilateral relations based on mutual respect.
To mark the 50th anniversary, the Philippine embassy has organized activities focusing on promoting Filipino-Chinese ties. These stories will be compiled in a publication to be launched at a diplomatic reception in Beijing. FlorCruz shared that the successes of Filipinos in China contribute to both nations' contemporary stories.
In Manila, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos are expected to join the launch of a lights and sounds attraction at the Jones Bridge, a project sponsored by the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry to celebrate the anniversary of Philippine-Chinese relations.
