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Ukraine's Zelensky thanks Philippine president for support against Russia

03.06.2024 11:30
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Manila on Monday, expressing gratitude for the country’s strong stance against the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its involvement in an upcoming peace summit.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. meet in Manila on Monday, June 3, 2024.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. meet in Manila on Monday, June 3, 2024.Photo: EPA/JAM STA ROSA / POOL

"We are very grateful to be in your country, which supports Ukraine, our territorial integrity and sovereignty," Zelensky told Marcos during their meeting at the presidential palace in the Philippine capital.

Zelensky highlighted the Philippines' strong position on the issue, notably its vote in favor of a UN resolution condemning the Russian invasion.

"Thank you for participating in the summit; it sends a strong message," Zelensky said, referring to a peace conference scheduled for June 15-16 in Switzerland.

However, it remains uncertain if Marcos will attend the summit in person, according to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

Zelensky arrived in Manila on Sunday evening from Singapore, where he had addressed the Shangri-La Dialogue defense forum.

In his speech there, he urged Asia-Pacific countries to support the peace summit and accused Russia and China of pressuring other nations not to participate.

Beijing has stated it will not send representatives to Switzerland because Russia was not invited.

During the meeting in Manila, Marcos reiterated his commitment to supporting Ukraine and condemned "illegal, coercive and aggressive actions in the South China Sea," a statement seen as a veiled criticism of China.

Marcos welcomed Ukraine's plan to open an embassy in Manila later this year.

(jh/gs)

Source: IAR, Reuters