Manila - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of the Philippines met with Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta this Friday, expressing his optimism about the future of relations between the two countries. During their bilateral meeting at Malacañan Palace, Marcos highlighted his positive outlook on the state visit's potential to bolster ties.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos emphasized the importance of the visit in developing and deepening relations between the two nations.

He also reiterated the Philippines' support for Timor-Leste, underscoring the shared goal of maintaining peace and stability in the region during challenging times. Furthermore, Marcos thanked Ramos-Horta for inviting him to visit Timor-Leste, expressing eagerness to continue expanding relations. On his part, Ramos-Horta acknowledged the long-standing solidarity between the countries, thanking the Philippines for its support during Timor-Leste's bid to join the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). He revealed plans for Timor-Leste to be ready for full ASEAN membership by 2025. The two countries officially established diplomatic relations on May 20, 2002, coinciding with Timor-Leste's Independence Day. Ramos-Horta's four-day state visit to the Philippines is scheduled from November 8 to 11.