MANILA, Aug. 28 (PNA) — President Benigno S. Aquino III said he would push for stronger trade relations, as well as raise awareness on climate change when he embarks on a multi-nation tour of Europe and the United States next month.
In an exclusive interview with Bombo Radyo Philippines on Wednesday, the President said he will visit Spain, France, Germany and Belgium middle of September and will then proceed to the US.
While in Europe, he said he would express the country’s gratitude to European nations for lifting the restrictions imposed on Philippine carriers, enabling the latter to penetrate the European market.
He also said he would thank leaders of the European Union for their contributions to the Philippines in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda, as well as to the peace efforts in Mindanao.
He will also hold discussions regarding Filipino seafarers employed in European vessels under the European Maritime Safety Agency.
The President further said he would lure European investors to set up businesses in the Philippines.
“Ang masasabi ko na lang sa inyo na talagang iyong biyahe lalabas ng parang tig-dalawang araw lang kada bansa. Talagang ang biruan nga ‘nung ating mga kasamahan dito, karamihan ng tulog yata ay sa eroplano,” he told Bombo Radyo.
“Pero magiging sulit ang pagod na ‘yan sa inaasahan nating ipapasok na investors dito, lalo na sa manufacturing,” he added.
After his tour of Europe, the President will proceed to the US to attend a United Nations (UN) summit on global climate change at the invitation of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
He will share the country’s experiences on the impact of global climate change and discuss the need to step up measures on raising awareness on climate change adaptation.
Visiting other countries is very important, the President said, noting that meeting foreign leaders face-to-face results in better relations among countries. (PNA)