President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted more than seven decades of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Germany as he led a state luncheon toast in honor of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and First Lady Elke Büdenbender in Malacañang on Monday.
In remarks delivered at the Ceremonial Hall, Marcos welcomed the visiting German delegation and underscored Germany’s long-standing role as a key partner in Philippine development across multiple sectors.
“For over seven decades of bilateral relations, Germany has become a very important partner of the Philippines in various aspects of cooperation that impact our national development,” Marcos said.
The President also extended what he described as traditional Filipino hospitality to the visiting officials, noting the significance of the occasion in strengthening cultural and diplomatic ties between the two nations.
He then led a formal toast, calling for continued goodwill and cooperation between Manila and Berlin.
Marcos raised a toast “to the continued good health and success of President Steinmeier and Ms. Büdenbender,” as well as “to the friendship and cooperation between our two countries” and “to our shared prosperity.”
He also included in his message a tribute to citizens of both nations working toward global peace, acknowledging people-to-people ties as a key foundation of bilateral relations.
The state luncheon formed part of the German president’s official visit to the Philippines, which Manila described as a reaffirmation of strong diplomatic engagement and shared international priorities.
Marcos concluded his toast with a call for unity and continued collaboration between Filipinos and Germans in advancing peace and development.
“Cheers! Mabuhay,” he said.