European leader lauds Phl’s economic performance

BRUSSELS – European Council President Herman Van Rompuy hailed the Philippines’ economic performance and continuing fight against corruption as he announced yesterday the European Union’s more than doubling its development assistance to the Philippines in the next six years.

“It is increasing from 130 million euros to 325 million euros with the focus on traditional and legal reform, sustainable energy and job creation,” Van Rompuy said in a statement read before the media after a bilateral meeting with President Aquino in the European Council office here.

Van Rompuy welcomed Aquino who was visiting Europe for the first time, and noted the Philippines’ success in making its economy the fastest growing in Asia.

“It is an engine of growth in its region and will progressively raise millions of people from poverty. It was also a forerunner in democratic transition in Southeast Asia and in this context I pay tribute to President Aquino’s good governance agenda,” Van Rompuy said.

“The fight against corruption remains a key issue. Democracy indeed goes well beyond elections and the rule of law and respect for human rights are in the heart of it,” he said.

In their discussions, Van Rompuy said they underlined the importance of the 2012 Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, which, “once implemented, will increase our engagement politically and economically and enhance cooperation in many areas such as migration or disaster risk and management.

“I look forward to strengthening our trade and investment relations. European Union is negotiating free trade agreements in the region and remains open to start further negotiations,” he noted.

Van Rompuy also highlighted the valuable contribution of Filipino migrants living and working in Europe.

“Filipino migrants sent 2.3 billion euros back to the Philippines in 2013. The European Union is the second largest source of remittances to the Philippines and the largest employer of Filipino seafarers. I thank you for your attention and I would like to thank again President Aquino for his visit to Brussels and to the institution of the European Union,” Van Rompuy said.

Bangsamoro issue

Van Rompuy also said he and Aquino discussed Mindanao and reiterated the EU’s support for the peace process.

“And I would like to take this opportunity to commend the President for his pivotal role. Just a week ago, a draft law was submitted to the Philippines’ Congress, paving the way for greater autonomy in Mindanao,” he said.

“The EU has been invited to monitor the plebiscite in Bangsamoro in 2015 and we are currently looking into that possibility,” he added.

The President thanked the European Council for its help in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yolanda and for supporting Mindanao peace and development.

“Your solidarity and support have helped many of my affected countrymen rise from the rubble of devastation, and thus rebuild their lives and communities in a better and faster manner. Such kindness will never be forgotten by a grateful nation,” Aquino said.

“The European Union has been one of our most valuable partners in securing and sustaining peace in Mindanao, and we are indeed grateful for the EU’s continued support as we tread the straight and righteous path to peace and equitable development,” Aquino said.

Aquino said it was in this context that he and Van Rompuy affirmed their intent to further strengthen cooperation in various fields.