The Asia-Pacific region will play a critical role this century in shaping the world both economically and politically. ASEAN will be of huge importance in this process, and the Philippines, as one of the group’s founders and a leading democracy, can be at the forefront.
The UK Government is determined to strengthen our ties across Asia-Pacific in line with this region’s growing importance in a changing world. That is why I am this week visiting Indonesia and the Philippines, as the first British Foreign Secretary to come to Manila since 1997.
We have increased the numbers of UK diplomats in embassies across Asia including here in Manila, many more British Ministers are travelling to the region, and we are on track to open five new diplomatic posts in Asia by 2015. I opened Britain’s new embassy in Laos in 2012 which means we are now represented in all ASEAN countries.
Of course, the ties between Britain and Asia are important at the level of individuals and communities as well as governments. The Philippines is no exception. Britain’s 250,000 strong Filipino community, the largest in Europe, makes a highly valued contribution to our society.
Last year we also saw the strength of the bond between our countries when British people witnessed the destructive impact of Typhoon Yolanda. The UK government pledged more than P5.6 billion for the emergency response and early recovery efforts. British citizens and businesses not only matched but exceeded this by giving more than P6.5 billion.
At the heart of our relationship with the Philippines, however, are the values we have in common. Our two island democracies share a fundamental commitment to good governance, the rule of law, free markets and individual liberty.
Both our countries also have a stake in the global debate about the importance of these values and the role of the state.
Some think Asia’s rise proves autocratic forms of capitalism are just as capable of economic success as stable democracies, and that countries can do without the values we prize. I believe they are drawing the wrong conclusions. The world is getting more competitive and Asian countries are facing new challenges. In this changing world, open societies and economies will be crucial for the stability and sustainable growth of countries across Asia and beyond.
Here in the Philippines, you have built one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia while defending democracy and a free press. You have also demonstrated resilience in the face of testing political challenges and violent conflict. Just this weekend the Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front successfully concluded comprehensive peace negotiations. This is a significant step towards lasting peace and development for Mindanao, which will benefit the Philippines as a whole, and you can be assured of the UK’s continuing support for this process.
Your government also continues to work to strengthen democratic institutions, root out corruption and ensure the benefits of economic growth are felt by all. Earlier this week I saw how Indonesia’s leaders were tackling some of the same, tough issues. This is work that takes time, but the benefits are enduring.
The drive to strengthen democracy and rule of law I have encountered in Jakarta and here in Manila can serve as an inspiration to many others. In your commitment to advancing universal values, both at home, in ASEAN and beyond, you have the UK’s full support.
We look forward to strengthening the relationship between the UK and the Philippines, deepening our cooperation on regional and global issues, and working together to promote the values we know to be so vital for the future of this region and the world.
* * *
(William Hague is the British Foreign Secretary)