Việt Nam and the Philippines on Monday agreed to elevate their relations to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership, opening a new chapter in bilateral cooperation, during talks between General Secretary of the Communist Party of Việt Nam (CPV) Central Committee and State President Tô Lâm and Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. in Manila.
At the talks, President Marcos Jr. warmly welcomed General Secretary and President Tô Lâm, his spouse and the high-ranking Vietnamese delegation, stressing that the visit is of special significance as it marks the first visit to the Philippines by a General Secretary of the CPV and coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries (1976–2026).
The Philippine leader noted that Việt Nam is the only country in Southeast Asia with which the Philippines has established a Strategic Partnership, reflecting the importance Manila attaches to the relationship. He said the elevation of bilateral ties to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership during the visit would further strengthen cooperation and open a new chapter in bilateral ties in political, defence-security and other substantive areas for the benefit of both peoples and for regional peace, stability and development. General Secretary and State President Lâm thanked President Marcos Jr., the Philippine Government and people for their warm and respectful reception.
