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"Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Vietnam's To Lam pledged to strengthen cooperation on Monday, as the two countries marked 50 years of diplomatic relations by officially upgrading their bilateral ties to an 'Enhanced Strategic Partnership.' Footage from Sunday shows To Lam arriving at Villamor Airbase in Pasay City for his two-day visit alongside First Lady Ngo Phuong. On Monday, Lam began his official itinerary with a wreath-laying ceremony at Rizal Park, honouring the Philippines' national hero. Lam and Marcos also attended the Vietnam-Philippines Business Forum 2026 in Manila, where the Vietnamese leader declared a 'new phase' in cooperation between Hanoi and Manila, with both sides seeking to translate strong political ties into greater trade, investment and business connectivity. "For more than half a century, the friendship and cooperation between the two countries have been continuously consolidated on the foundation of political trust, mutual respect and shared common interests for peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region," Lam emphasised. "Especially since the two countries upgraded their strategic partnership, over the 50 years of cooperation, bilateral relations have developed strongly across many fields, from politics, defence and security to trade and investment," he continued. Lam also expressed confidence in the Philippines' role as ASEAN Chair in 2026, saying Manila can help promote a more 'united' regional bloc. "Vietnam believes that the Philippines will successfully fulfil this important responsibility and, together with member countries, promote a united, resilient, inclusive, deeply connected and highly adaptable ASEAN in the face of regional and global fluctuations," he stated. For his part, President Marcos Jr described the anniversary as a 'golden jubilee' and noted that Vietnam is the Philippines' only formal strategic partner within ASEAN. "The Philippines and Vietnam have built a relationship founded on economic resilience, mutual growth and a shared commitment to a strong, sovereign and integrated ASEAN," the President said. "Cooperation amongst like-minded partners has become increasingly essential. This is why our relationship with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam continues to grow in importance," he stressed. Both leaders agreed to elevate bilateral ties to an 'Enhanced Strategic Partnership,' signalling a unified front in navigating regional geopolitical shifts, food security and maritime safety."
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