European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. today in a bid to improve ties that had soured in recent years over human rights issues.
Von der Leyen said in a joint statement that the first visit of an EU commissioner to the Philippines in 60 years of diplomatic relations would help to accelerate a new era of cooperation.
She also stressed that the EU wants to diversify supply lines and “de-risk” trade relations, in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine which has exposed Europe’s dependency on Russian fossil fuels.
Von der Leyen added that the EU would provide €466 million in funding to for the transition to a circular economy, and the generation of green energy through the Global Gateway sustainable investment plan.
The EU is also set to launch a digital economy package to improve connectivity and make the Philippines more attractive for European businesses.
