MOFA: Actively Participating in Philippine Supply Chain Cooperation to Implement Taiwan-Philippines Economic Corridor

(Central News Agency reporter Wu Shu-wei, Taipei, June 13) Pauline Kao, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), attended the Philippine Independence 128th Anniversary National Day reception yesterday, stating that Taiwan hopes to actively participate in key industrial supply chain cooperation between the Philippines and the United States under the 'Silicon Islands Initiative' within the framework of comprehensive diplomacy, gradually implementing various plans of the 'Taiwan-Philippines Economic Corridor'.

MOFA released a press statement this morning, confirming that Kao attended the 'Philippine Independence 128th Anniversary' National Day reception hosted by the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO).

Kao, representing Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, extended sincere congratulations to the Filipino people and government. She highlighted that Taiwan and the Philippines share Austronesian cultural roots and maintain close, friendly relations. Since the implementation of mutual visa-free travel, the Philippines has consistently become the largest source of Southeast Asian tourists to Taiwan and ranks as the ninth most popular overseas travel destination for Taiwanese citizens. She expressed hope that the mutual visa-free arrangement would continue. Taiwan is among the Philippines' top ten trading partners, with extensive exchanges across various fields. Over 170,000 Filipino citizens are working diligently in Taiwan, contributing significantly to Taiwan's industrial development.

Kao further emphasized that Taiwan and the Philippines share common interests and strategic vision. As important members of the First Island Chain, both countries are committed to upholding a free, democratic, and rules-based international order. They recognize the importance of maintaining regional peace and stability and support the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law. She expressed confidence that, under these shared values, Taiwan will continue to deepen cooperation with the Philippines in economic and trade, culture, education, maritime affairs, tourism, humanitarian aid, and disaster prevention and relief, jointly creating a prosperous future for both peoples.

Philippine Representative to Taiwan Corazon A. Padiernos expressed deep condolences to the victims of the recent earthquake in Mindanao, Philippines. She stated that Taiwan and the Philippines are vital partners in economic and international cooperation and thanked Taiwanese society for its acceptance and support of the 170,000 Filipino workers in Taiwan.

Padiernos particularly expressed gratitude for Taiwan's selfless and immediate medical humanitarian assistance to the Filipino people. When many countries refused to provide medical treatment for difficult cases, only Taiwan extended help, which she described as a concrete manifestation of the deepening bilateral relations and increasingly close exchanges.

MOFA noted that MECO highlighted 'weaving craftsmanship' (tennun) this year to underscore cultural commonalities between Taiwan and the Philippines. The event also featured an elaborate display of Philippine cultural heritage tapestries and traditional dance performances, showcasing the shared Austronesian historical and cultural connections between the two nations. (Edited by Chai Szu-Chia) 1150613

Stand with facts. Your support is the force that protects press freedom.

Download the Central News Agency 'First News' app to instantly access the latest updates.

Text, images, and videos on this website may not be reproduced, broadcast, publicly transmitted, or utilized without authorization.