Czech Prime Minister Fiala arrives in the Philippines

Czech Republic Prime Minister Petr Fiala arrived in the Philippines on Sunday evening, ahead of meeting with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to discuss possible partnerships on defense and trade, among others.

Fiala was welcomed at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City by Defense officer-in-charge Senior Undersecretary Carlito Galvez Jr. and other Philippine government officials, according to state-controlled PTV.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, Fiala and Marcos are set to meet regarding defense cooperation, trade and investment, university linkages, judicial cooperation, and labor cooperation.

“The Philippines is committed to fostering vibrant and meaningful cooperation between ASEAN and the EU, as the ASEAN coordinator of the dialogue partnership until 2024,” it said.

“Philippines’ relations with European states, including with the Czech Republic, are energized by mutual interests in upholding democracy and freedom, rule of law, peace and stability, and human rights,” it added. — BM, GMA Integrated News