PH, Chile to sign economic partnership deal by end of 2025

GYEONGJU, South Korea -The Philippines and Chile aim to sign an economic partnership agreement before the end of the year. 

During his meeting with Chilean President Gabriel Boric on the sidelines of the 32nd Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting at Hwabaek International Convention Center, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized the need to finalize the Philippines-Chile Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

Manila hosted the third round of negotiations on the deal in October.

The agreement, which will be the Philippines' first with a Latin American nation, will be signed by the end of this year, according to the two leaders.

Further, Marcos discussed ways to bring relations closer, despite the geographical distance that exists between the two countries. He highlighted the two countries' shared heritage and cultural affinity as a strong basis for building partnership and cooperation.

The Philippine leader also backed Boric's call for greater multilateralism, citing the role of both the APEC and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in addressing regional and global tensions.

The two countries will celebrate the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026. — VBL, GMA Integrated News