President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to Malacañang on Monday, describing the state visit as a significant milestone in the long-standing and values-driven partnership between the Philippines and Germany.
In his opening remarks at the bilateral meeting in the State Dining Room, Marcos said Steinmeier’s visit marked the first by a German head of state in 63 years, recalling the last official visit in 1963 by then President Heinrich Lübke.
“Good morning, Your Excellency, and the German delegation and welcome once again to Manila and welcome to Malacañang,” Marcos said, as he formally received the German leader and his delegation.
The President said the visit reflects the enduring friendship between the two countries, anchored on mutual respect and shared interests across political, economic, and security fields.
He said the bilateral talks were expected to cover a wide range of cooperation areas, including both bilateral initiatives and broader multilateral engagements where the Philippines and Germany share common positions.
Marcos noted that he was joined by members of his Cabinet during the meeting, signaling the Philippine government’s readiness to engage across multiple sectors of cooperation.
He also emphasized the importance of dialogue with Germany on pressing global issues, particularly challenges to international peace and stability.
“I hope to take this opportunity to talk to our German friends, who are very much like-minded on the important issues of our times regarding the various challenges to peace being faced by all of us around the globe,” Marcos said.
The President expressed optimism that the discussions would yield a constructive and meaningful exchange between the two delegations, further strengthening ties between Manila and Berlin.
Marcos said the meeting underscores the Philippines’ commitment to deepening engagement with long-standing partners amid shifting global and regional dynamics.
He closed his remarks by expressing confidence that the bilateral discussions would help advance shared priorities and reinforce cooperation between the two countries in the years ahead.