In a celebration brimming with vibrant culture and promising diplomacy, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, graced the Philippine National Day reception held in Abu Dhabi. The event was a significant marker in the UAE-Philippines relationship, showcasing a blend of history, shared values, and future aspirations between the two nations.
During the reception, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, Alfonso Ferdinand Ver, delivered a heartwarming speech that captured the spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect defining the ties between the Philippines and the UAE. Ambassador Ver enthusiastically praised the UAE for its remarkable achievements, not only in economic and technological advancements but also in promoting tolerance, cultural diversity, and global cooperation. He highlighted the UAE’s meteoric rise as a global hub for innovation, sustainability, and trade, which has made it an essential partner for the Philippines.
The ambassador’s remarks also shone a spotlight on the more than 700,000 Filipinos living and working in the UAE, forming one of the largest expatriate communities in the country. These Filipino expatriates have contributed immensely to the UAE’s growth, playing key roles in various sectors like healthcare, education, hospitality, and engineering. The event celebrated this people-to-people connection, illustrating how the bond between the two nations extends beyond mere diplomatic ties and is deeply rooted in shared values and aspirations.
Looking forward, Ambassador Ver emphasized enhancing cooperation across diverse fields, particularly in trade, investment, and education. He expressed optimism about the future, noting that the UAE’s ambitious vision for the next fifty years aligns perfectly with the Philippines’ goals for sustainable development and inclusive growth. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi echoed these sentiments, reiterating the UAE’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the Philippines.
The evening was a vivid portrayal of the strong diplomatic and cultural bridge that continues to strengthen, promising a future filled with greater opportunities and deeper cooperation between the UAE and the Philippines.