President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul discussed ways to strengthen Philippines-Thailand relations amid regional and global challenges.

The two leaders met at the sidelines of the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu City, where both leaders discussed

In a Facebook post, the Presidential Communications Office said Marcos and Anutin tackled a wide range of issues aimed at deepening the longstanding partnership between Manila and Bangkok.

According to the PCO, the two leaders exchanged views on boosting bilateral ties through high-level engagements, trade and economic cooperation, people-to-people exchanges, and joint efforts against transnational crimes.

The meeting on Saturday, May 9, came after ASEAN leaders held discussions on regional concerns such as the Middle East conflict, energy security, food resilience, and regional stability during the summit hosted by the Philippines.

The PCO added that Marcos and Anutin also discussed regional and global issues of mutual concern and reaffirmed their commitment to ASEAN solidarity, peace, and stability.

Prior to the bilateral meeting, Marcos held a trilateral discussion with Anutin and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet amid ongoing territorial tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. Both leaders agreed to continue dialogue and work toward de-escalating tensions.

Thailand is among the founding members of ASEAN alongside the Philippines, as the regional bloc approaches its sixth decade this year.

The Philippines hosted the 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings in Cebu under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together.”

-Paraluman News