President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday praised the growing relationship between the Philippines and France, highlighting the two countries’ shared commitment to international law and democratic values.
“It is very encouraging for the Philippines to see that despite the great distance between our two countries, the primacy of our shared values and our adherence to international law is something that is a common ground, that is very solid between France and the Philippines,” Marcos said as he welcomed French Minister for Foreign Trade, International Financing, and French Nationals Abroad Laurent Saint-Martin in Malacañang.
Saint-Martin conveyed the warm regards of French President Emmanuel Macron and thanked Marcos and Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque for the warm hospitality extended to the French delegation. His visit forms part of France’s broader initiative to expand its diplomatic and economic presence in Southeast Asia.
The Philippines and France are set to mark 78 years of diplomatic relations this June. Over 31,000 Filipinos currently live and work in France, many of whom are professionals, students, artists, and domestic workers.
The two countries have signed a range of bilateral agreements covering air services, cultural exchange, defense cooperation, film collaboration, and development partnerships.
Notably, both nations are in talks to establish a Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), which would allow for enhanced defense cooperation and joint military training in each other’s territories. The Philippines currently has similar agreements in place with the United States, Australia, and Japan to bolster regional security and military collaboration.
The Marcos administration has emphasized international partnerships grounded in mutual respect, rule of law, and shared strategic interests—principles it continues to advance in its evolving ties with France.