Secretary Manalo, Malaysian Foreign Minister Saifuddin Discuss Cooperation for Post-Pandemic Growth, Regional Peace and Security

Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo and Malaysian Foreign Minister Dato’ Sri Saifuddin Bin Abdullah meet at the sidelines of the 77th United Nations General Assembly in New York to discuss Philippines-Malaysia bilateral relations and explore collaborative initiatives to morein other areas of shared interest that are geared towards post-pandemic growth and maintaining peace and stability in the region.

NEW YORK, 22 September 2022 – Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo met with Malaysian Minister of Foreign Affairs Dato’ Sri Saifuddin Bin Abdullah on 22 September 2022 on the sidelines of the 77th United Nations General Assembly in New York to discuss the state of Philippines-Malaysia relations, and the role of ASEAN in promoting regional security.

The two Ministers were pleased to note the strong ties between the Philippines and Malaysia. Secretary Manalo welcomed Malaysia’s interest to collaborate in the digital economy, which is among the priorities of the Philippine Government. Malaysia ranked as the Philippines’ 10th major trading partner and 15th top investment partner in 2021.

The Secretary also acknowledged Malaysia’s contribution to the peace process in Mindanao, adding that he looks forward to continued engagement with Malaysia in other aspects of the bilateral relations.

The two Ministers exchanged views on developments in ASEAN and expressed hope for a productive meeting during the forthcoming ASEAN Summits in Cambodia in November. END