Marcos thanks Australia for 'consistent support on rule of law'

VIENTIANE - President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. thanked Australia for its consistent support to the Philippines’ position when it comes to ensuring maritime security, particularly upholding the rule of law.

“On Maritime Security and Cooperation, we thank Australia for its consistent support for the rule of law, for the 1982 UNCLOS, and the binding 2016 Arbitral Award not only through timely statements of support, but also through capacity-building and academic initiatives to mainstream appreciation of international law,” Marcos said during the ASEAN-Australia Summit.

He said the celebration of the Philippines’ 50 years of relations with Australia was an eloquent testament to the consistent and positive role that the latter has played in ensuring peace and stability in the region and the Indo-Pacific.

“At the same time, the Philippines welcomes Australia’s continued support through programs and initiatives that recognize each country’s needs for the overall goal of promoting the economic welfare of our neighborhood,” Marcos said.

When it comes to the sustainability of the seas, Marcos urged Australia to promote its developed technologies and build initiatives aimed at addressing marine pollution.

The President suggested that this should be with particular emphasis on the reduction of plastic waste and the promotion of sustainable fisheries management.

“Pursuing these initiatives is deemed essential to safeguard marine environments shared by the ASEAN region and by Australia,” the Philippine President said. —RF, GMA Integrated News