Australian envoy vows stronger ties with the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — Australia’s new ambassador to the Philippines Steven James Robinson has vowed to further strengthen ties between the two countries during his term.

But Robinson also did not fail to mention Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray as well as teen actress and singer Ylona Garcia, both Filipino-Australians that “both countries proudly claim” as their own.

In a speech during the Australia Day Reception on Thursday night, Robinson cited the countries’ “quickly growing” trade relationship and people-to-people links.

“Over my term here, I hope to continue to strengthen this relationship, including with senior ministerial visits over the coming year,” he said.

Robinson, who replaced Amanda Gorely, presented his credentials to President Duterte at Malacañang last week.

The envoy said Australia and the Philippines share a relationship that is both “broad and deep.”

“Our formal bilateral relationship is made up of partnerships in defense, security, law enforcement, trade, business, education, development assistance and disaster preparedness,” he said.

The Philippines and Australia will mark their 75 years of formal diplomatic ties in 2021.

“Equally important is the friendship and people-to-people links between our countries,” Robinson said, noting that there are over 250,000 Filipinos who now live in Australia, making them the fifth highest group.

He said Australia has also become the top destination for tertiary students from the Philippines who choose to study abroad. 

Likewise, many Australian students are coming to the Philippines each year under Australia’s New Colombo Plan or an initiative of the Australian government aimed at increasing exchange in the Indo-Pacific region for Australian university students.

He said the two nations’ trade relationship is also growing quickly with more Filipino companies investing in Australia, creating benefits for Australian communities. 

Likewise, he said a large number of Australian companies are investing and doing business in the Philippines, contributing to economic and social benefits to both countries through employment, innovation, technology, infrastructure, competition and community support.