Marcos elated with Zelenskyy visit in PH to tackle common issues

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. on Monday expressed elation over the visit of Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelenskyy in the Philippines to discuss issues similarly faced by the two countries.

Marcos welcomed Zelenskyy at the Malacañang Palace this morning wherein they had a bilateral meeting. He said he is happy to see his Ukrainian counterpart as they did not have the opportunity to meet on the sidelines of the 2024 IISS Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.

Marcos, though, expressed hope that their meeting would be under ''better circumstances'' amid the unfinished war Ukraine is facing against Russia.

''We are very happy to welcome you, President Zelenskyy, to the Philippines and I’m very happy that despite what I know is a very tight travel schedule for both of us… We were unable to find time when we were in Singapore,'' Marcos said.

''But I’m happy that we are very honored that you find the time to pass by the Philippines. I know that the crisis in your country has occupied all of your attention and all of your time. It is a great pleasure to meet with you to discuss some of the issues that are common to our two countries and hopefully find ways for both of us together. Once again, I wish it were under better circumstances but I’m happy that you are able to come and visit with us, Mr. President,'' he added.

In a phone call with the Ukrainian leader in 2023, Marcos expressed unity with Zelenskyy's “search for peace,” as he said the Philippines is “watching with admiration, the bravery and nationalism that has been displaced by the Ukrainians” amid Russia’s attacks.

The Philippines also expressed its support for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, voting at the UN General Assembly to denounce Russia’s invasion, expressing “explicit condemnation” against “the use of force against the political independence and territorial integrity of any state.”

Russia's war in Ukraine has resulted in a terrible human cost, inflicting huge suffering on millions, according to the United Nations. —KG, GMA Integrated News