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Ukraine’s Zelensky makes surprise stop in Philippines to meet Marcos Jnr
- Philippine president’s stance on Ukraine-Russia war has pivoted from a neutral approach held when he was campaigning for office
- Brief meeting on Monday morning was sparked by both leaders missing each other at key security forum in Singapore over the weekend
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Ukraine’s Zelensky discusses ‘territorial integrity and sovereignty’ with Philippine president
Ukraine’s Zelensky discusses ‘territorial integrity and sovereignty’ with Philippine president
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday made a surprise stop in the Philippines to meet President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr at Malacanang Palace, where both leaders voiced their commitment to sovereignty and a global rules-based order.
Zelensky told Marcos Jnr after their brief meeting: “Thank you so much, Mr President. We’re happy to be first time in the Philippines. I’m sure not the last,” according to an official palace news release.
The Ukrainian president thanked the Philippines for supporting Ukraine’s “territorial integrity and sovereignty”. “Thank you so much for your ‘big word’ and clear position about us, about this Russia occupation of our territories, and thank you on your support,” he was quoted as saying.
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In turn, the palace said Marcos Jnr told Zelensky it was “very good news” that Ukraine would be opening an embassy in Manila this year “because we would very much like to continue to help, in any way that the Philippines can, through multilateral [efforts] and the UN”.
The Philippine leader pledged to “do all we can to promote peace and to bring an end to the fighting”, referencing Ukraine’s war with Russia.
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