Marcos seeks Czech support in Philippines-EU free trade talks

PRAGUE—President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday sought the support of the Czech Republic on the resumption of the free trade talks between the Philippines and the European Union. 

“Moreover, we seek the support of the Czech Republic for the resumption of the Philippine-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations,” Marcos said during the Philippine-Czech Republic Business Forum. 

“We believe that the resumption of these negotiations will be a big step in furthering our trade relations, with the end view to establish a stable, predictable, and enabling business environment that promotes inclusive and sustainable growth and development,” he added.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo earlier said that the Philippine government is hoping to launch formal free trade agreement negotiations with the EU. 

The Philippines has been in preliminary talks about a free trade deal with the 27-nation bloc for months. 

To recall, a previous effort almost a decade ago was stalled due to EU’s concerns on the violent drug war of Marcos’ predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte.

More robust ties

Meanwhile, in his toast at the Prague Castle hosted by President Petr Pavel, Marcos said the bilateral ties between the two countries have grown more robust.

He said it goes beyond the historical friendship forged between national hero Dr. Jose Rizal and one of his closest confidants, Czech professor Ferdinand Blumentritt.

“The Czech Republic has found many, many parallels with the two countries that are built upon—well for the history, are the remarkable connections between the Czech Republic and the Philippines. Starting of course with, I think everyone is aware of the experience of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal here in Prague as he was mentored by his friend, Ferdinand Blumentritt,” Marcos said.

Marcos said the physical distance between the Philippines and the Czech Republic ''have faded away.''

''And we now are – feel that we are close, that you are a good neighbor to the Philippines. And this can be – this visit can be regarded as a new beginning for our two countries and our relationship together,” he said. —NB, GMA Integrated News