President stresses stronger economic ties with Philippines

(Web Desk) - Former President and current Member of the House of Representatives of the Philippines Gloria Macapagal called on President Asif Ali Zardari in Islamabad on Wednesday.

Welcoming her, the President said Pakistan and the Philippines share over seven decades of enduring friendship and cooperation across political, economic, and defence fields.

The President reaffirmed Pakistan's appreciation for the Philippines' continued support for Pakistan's engagement with ASEAN.

He expressed solidarity with the people and government of the Philippines over the loss of lives and widespread damage caused by the recent earthquake.

He said Pakistan stands with the Philippines in its recovery and commended Manila's leadership in advancing regional climate resilience, including through the establishment of Loss and Damage Fund to be based in Manila.

The President called for stronger economic engagement, including enhanced trade in food and pharmaceutical products and greater private-sector collaboration.

He appreciated the Philippines' decision to grant long-term residence permits to Pakistanis married to Filipino nationals and hoped for reciprocal facilitation for Pakistani visitors.

Ms Macapagal reaffirmed her country's resolve to deepen cooperation with Pakistan in trade, defence, and people-to-people exchanges. She expressed sympathies over the loss of lives in terrorist attacks in Pakistan.