Canada's new ambassador presents credentials to BBM

• Published date: 09 February 2023
• Publication title: Business Mirror

THE new Canadian envoy highlighted the depth, breadth and unlimited potential of his country's bilateral links with the Philippines, as he presented his diplomatic credentials to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

'Our countries are bound by extensive people-to-people ties. We are further linked by our shared commitment to peace and stability, democracy, and a rules-based international order,' Ambassador David Hartman said in his meeting with the Chief Executive on January 31 at Malacañang Palace. 'Together we are working to address shared priorities, like the fight against climate change, poverty reduction, economic recovery, supply-chain resilience, food security, and responsible oceans management.'

Today there are nearly 1 million Canadians of Filipino origin. The diplomat noted that they 'who now live and work in our country have been a welcome addition to Canadian society, recognized for their hard work, diligence, and warmth. The bridges these ties have built span the Pacific, setting the stage for the continued growth of [our two-way] relationship.'

The future, he asserted, is one filled with opportunity. 'In November 2022 Canada launched its Indo-Pacific Strategy, which identified the Philippines as a key partner. In the coming year we will be working hard to advance...