Today Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines in the margins of the 29th APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting. 

Prime Minister Albanese and President Marcos agreed to strengthen the already warm and deep ties between the two countries by formally elevating the relationship to a Strategic Partnership. The Prime Minister has asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs to take forward negotiations with the Philippines on this important step forward.

The elevation will build upon the Comprehensive Partnership signed in 2015, and 76 years of formal diplomatic relations between Australia and the Philippines.  

Through the Strategic Partnership, Australia and the Philippines will seek to expand existing defence and maritime cooperation, counter-terrorism and law enforcement links, and facilitate deeper cooperation in a range of areas including addressing climate change.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Albanese:

“In the Filipino spirit of bayanihan and the Australian tradition of mateship, we have stood by each other in good times and bad.

“Elevating our relationship to a Strategic Partnership will reinforce our focus on strengthening ties between our two countries, and working together to build a region that is resilient and prosperous for all. 

“I look forward to continuing the work between our two nations.”