25 July 2024, CANBERRA - Philippine Ambassador to Australia H.E. Ma. Hellen De La Vega highlighted the long-standing friendship between the Philippines and Australia and the positive momentum in the Strategic Partnership announced in September 2023 in the Ambassadors’ panel organized by Asialink Business on 24 July 2024 under its 2024 Leaders Summit.

The panel was joined by the High Commissioner of Singapore H.E. Anil Kumar Nayar and Ambassador of Thailand H.E. Arjaree Sriratanaban and moderated by Asialink Group CEO Martine Letts. Malaysian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Deputy Secretary Michelle Chan addressed the Asialink Leaders and High Commissioner H.E. Sharinna Abdullah engaged the participants on ASEAN-Australia relations.

Ambassador De La Vega underscored that the robust Philippines-Australia relations, spanning nearly eight decades, is founded on deep mutual respect and shared values. This enduring partnership is exemplified by the significant contributions of over 400,000 Filipinos in Australia and the commitment to advancing democracy and the importance of the rules-based international order.

The Ambassador stated that Philippines and Australia will continue working together to enhance political and strategic engagement, defense and security cooperation, law and justice, maritime security, trade and investment, development cooperation, health, science and innovation, climate change and disaster management, education and skills, tourism and people-to-people links under the Strategic Partnership.

The Asialink Leaders Program is the flagship program for developing Asia capability in Australia. Now in its 29th year, the program provides participants with the opportunity to gain insights into major Asian markets and cultures and cultivate a global perspective with Asia as a central focus. - END