Canadian premier pledges more investments in PH
By Michael Lim Ubac
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Visiting Canadian
Prime Minister Stephen Harper gestures during a joint news conference with
Philippine President Benigno Aquino III, unseen, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2012 at
Malacanang Palace grounds in Manila, Philippines. It was the first visit by a
Canadian head of state in 15 years which was aimed at strengthening relations
between the two countries. Canada is home to hundreds of thousands of Filipino
immigrants. AP
MANILA, Philippines – Visiting Canadian
Prime Minister Stephen Harper said Saturday he saw the Philippines as “an
emerging Asian tiger,” echoing the bullish outlook on the country painted by
political and business leaders in various parts of the world.
From the current US$1.5 billion total
trade between Canada and the Philippines, Harper pledged increased investments
in the country when he met with President Benigno Aquino III in Malacañang
before noon Saturday.
Speaking at a news conference, Harper did
not cite specific amounts, but described the Philippines as an “important
economic partner.”
Both he and Mr. Aquino witnessed the
signing of a memorandum of understanding on “Government-to-Government
Transactions in Defense and Military-related Equipment, Materials and System
and/or Services.”
“This will help us in our efforts to build
our defense and security capabilities,” said Mr. Aquino, welcoming Canada’s help
in the modernization of Philippine armed forces.
Both leaders also pledged their nations’
commitment to defense and trade cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges
between Manila and Ottawa during a tete-a-tete in the Palace.
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