WPS among topics discussed between Marcos, Czech PM Fiala

The issue on the West Philippine Sea was among the topics tackled during the bilateral meeting between President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Czech Republic Prime Minister Petr Fiala on Monday.

While he did not disclose and specify any information, Marcos mentioned that he and Fiala both gave importance to the rule of law during their bilateral talk held at the Malacañang Palace.

"We had a very interesting exchange of views regarding regional and international issues including the West Philippine Sea and Cross Trade and the war in Ukraine amongst others," Marcos said during the joint press statement.

"We both emphasize our countries' shared commitment to democracy, to human rights, and the rule of law," Marcos added.

According to Marcos, his meeting with Fiala "marks an important milestone in the 50 years of diplomatic ties between the Czech Republic and the Philippines."

"And as we celebrate that anniversary of bilateral relationship, this makes our discussion even more significant," he said.

Aside from the territorial issue in the West Philippine Sea, Marcos said they also tackled a range of issues of mutual interest such as defense cooperation, trade and investment, university to university linkages and labor cooperation.

Marcos further stressed to Fiala the Philippines' "strategic location in Southeast Asia and its potential as a gateway to the region to ASEAN to the Asia Pacific."

He also underscored to the Czechoslovak leader the country's economic outlook amid the present international situation.

"We shared positive developments in the Philippine economy through high GDP growth rate and strong economic outlook and the context of a difficult and volatile world economic situation," Marcos said.

The Department of Foreign Affairs earlier said Fiala's visit in the Philippines was significant as the two countries are currently preparing for the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the start of the bilateral relations between Manila and Prague on October 5.—LDF, GMA Integrated News