PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

30 January 2025, CANBERRA - Philippine Ambassador to Australia H.E. Antonio Morales paid courtesy calls on the Heads of Mission of Japan, the Republic of Korea, Türkiye and India wherein he underscored the Philippines’ commitment to cultivating robust economic and political cooperation across the Indo-Pacific region.

On 10 December 2024, Ambassador Morales met with H.E. Suzuki Kazuhiro, Ambassador of Japan, to discuss the enduring Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. The conversation highlighted ongoing collaborations in maritime security, infrastructure development, and Japan’s continued support for Philippine economic growth and disaster preparedness initiatives.

The Ambassador also engaged in productive discussions with H.E. Admiral Sim Seungseob, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, on 12 December 2024. Their meeting focused on furthering Philippines-ROK relations, particularly in trade, defense, and cultural cooperation.

On 09 January 2025, Ambassador Morales met with H.E. Ufuk Gezer, Ambassador of Türkiye, and H.E. Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India. Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, strengthening trade and investment opportunities, and fostering greater people-to-people exchanges. Ambassador Gezer and the Ambassador acknowledged the growing collaboration in many new areas between the Philippines and Türkiye such as defense and security. Meanwhile, the meeting with High Commissioner Baglay noted the robust economic partnership between the Philippines and India particularly in digital innovation, health, and education.

These meetings highlight the Philippines’ proactive engagement with its Indo-Pacific partners in pursuit of shared prosperity, security, and sustainable development. - END