Marcos calls for finalizing ASEAN-Canada FTA

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Canada to collaborate closely with ASEAN toward finalizing the Free Trade Agreement during Thursday's ASEAN-Canada Special Summit in Lao PDR.

Marcos emphasized that the agreement would present economic opportunities for both sides and urged Canada to address remaining issues and reach a consensus.

The Philippines thanked Canada for its support of ASEAN centrality and regional security, highlighting initiatives such as health security within ASEAN and the Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) initiative.

Marcos also commended Canada's contributions in enhancing digital skills, healthcare, science, and technology within the region, welcoming programs aimed at advancing these areas.

The President expressed confidence that Canada's upcoming G7 presidency will play a significant role in addressing global challenges and promoting closer cooperation with ASEAN.