President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong met on Wednesday to expand cooperation in trade, investment, artificial intelligence (AI), health, and social development, as Manila and Singapore moved to further strengthen one of Southeast Asia’s closest partnerships.

The meeting, held during Marcos’ working visit to the city-state, underscored both countries’ commitment to expanding economic collaboration and pursuing new bilateral agreements that would further benefit their peoples.

According to Malacañang, the two leaders discussed ways to boost trade and investment flows, harness opportunities in AI, attract more investments, and strengthen cooperation in health and social development.

They also agreed to pursue additional bilateral agreements aimed at further enhancing relations between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.

The meeting comes as Singapore prepares to assume the ASEAN chairship next year following the Philippines’ chairship of the regional bloc this year.

Marcos and Wong likewise reaffirmed their shared commitment to uphold ASEAN centrality and work together toward a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Southeast Asia.

The Philippines and Singapore have long maintained close economic ties, with Singapore consistently ranking among the Philippines’ largest sources of foreign direct investment and a key trading partner in the region. (PNA)