Ottawa – Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that she will welcome Enrique A. Manalo, Secretary for Foreign Affairs for the Philippines, to Ottawa on May 8, 2024. This year is a significant milestone for Canada and the Philippines as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations. The long-standing friendship shared by the two countries is underpinned by strong and enduring people-to-people ties.
Taking stock of progress achieved in bilateral cooperation since the launch of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy in late 2022, Minister Joly and Secretary Manalo will discuss how to further advance shared priorities, including upholding regional peace and stability, promoting democracy and the rule of law, supporting long-term growth and prosperity, and combatting climate change.
During his visit, Secretary Manalo will also meet with Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, and Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business.
“For 75 years, our two countries have enjoyed a long-standing partnership—one that is anchored in generations of dynamic connections between our peoples. I look forward to greeting Secretary Manalo and building on our countries’ robust relationship, which is being furthered through our Indo-Pacific Strategy, for many years to come.” – Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs