Marcos tackled maritime issues during talk with UAE PM —PCO

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. has discussed with United Arab Emirates (UAE) Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum regional stability, particularly maritime issues in the region, during their meeting. 

According to the Presidential Communications Office on Wednesday, Marcos assured Sheik Mohammed of Manila's commitment to resolving maritime issues through the rule of law and adherence to international agreements, especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Marcos further cited his government’s unwavering efforts to maintain peace and economic stability, which Sheikh Mohammed praised as ''a foundation for strengthening trade and investment ties between the two nations,'' according to the PCO.

Marcos emphasized his administration’s agenda, including streamlining regulations and enhancing ease of doing business in the Philippines.

He also shared how Dubai’s success when it comes to diversifying its economy beyond oil served as an inspiration, particularly its focus on services and tourism as ''key growth drivers.''

Marcos further underscored the mutual respect and cooperation that have long defined the relations between the Philippines and UAE, particularly the latter's fair treatment of Filipino nationals.

Maharlika Investment Fund

Meanwhile, during his meeting with Sheikh Mohammed, Marcos also showcased his administration’s economic program, the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF), according to Ambassador Alfonso Ver, head of the Philippine mission to the UAE.

“The President highlighted a key initiative: The Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF), which will be launched next month. The president expressed optimism that these efforts would make the Philippines a more competitive and resilient economy, appealing to global investors, including UAE investors,” Ver told GMA News Online.

Modeled after successful sovereign wealth funds like Dubai’s, MIF aims to strengthen the country’s economic foundations and create sustainable opportunities, Ver said.

Ver said economic collaboration was the “central theme” of the leaders’ discussion. “Sheikh Mohammed expressed optimism that President Marcos’ visit would catalyze more robust trade and investment relations between the two nations,” he said.

In a separate social media post, First Lady Louise ''Liza'' Araneta-Marcos thanked the Philippine Embassy in the UAE, the hotel staff, and the entire Filipino delegation there ''for ensuring our overnight visit was not only comfortable but also successful.''
 
''You represent our country with pride through your hard work and dedication,'' the First Lady said.

Marcos went to the UAE for a one-day working visit. He left the country on Monday night and is set to arrive on Wednesday morning. —with Jojo Dass/KBK, GMA Integrated News