President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed optimism that Chilean Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren’s visit to the Philippines would bolster bilateral ties, particularly in trade, investment, and agriculture.
“I’ll make certain that your time here will be productive and will further relations between our two countries,” Mr. Marcos said during Klaveren’s courtesy call at Malacañang on Friday.
The President highlighted the potential for cooperation in cacao cultivation and processing, citing Chile’s advanced technologies in the sector.
“It’s becoming an important crop for us, and you have some of the best technologies for that product,” Marcos said.
Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque also pointed to potential partnerships in fisheries, mineral exports from Mindanao, and skincare products.
“We’re also exploring opportunities in agriculture and seafood products for export,” Roque said.
Chile likewise reaffirmed its support for the Philippines’ bid for a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) seat for the 2027-2028 term, with the latter pledging its backing for the former’s candidature for 2029-2030.
Van Klaveren described his visit as productive, noting discussions with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on bilateral, regional, and global issues.
The Philippines and Chile established diplomatic relations in 1946, marking their 75th anniversary in 2021. In 2023, Chile ranked as the Philippines’ 49th trading partner and 47th export market.