During a bilateral meeting held on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Russian President Vladimir Putin explored ways to enhance trade cooperation between the two countries.
On June 17, 2026, Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Kazan, Russia, to discuss opportunities for strengthening economic and trade ties. The bilateral discussion took place during the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit, which both leaders co-chaired. President Putin emphasized the substantial mutual cooperation foundation and highlighted that last year’s bilateral trade had already surpassed $1.5 billion, with significant potential for growth, particularly in agriculture and energy supplies. President Marcos expressed appreciation for the constructive exchange concerning structural issues affecting bilateral trade. He noted ongoing opportunities to expand cooperation, citing the Joint Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation (JCTEC) meeting in Moscow in September 2025 where energy and food security were identified as shared priorities. Both leaders acknowledged the long-standing diplomatic relations, marking 50 years this month, and the significance of the ASEAN-Russia partnership celebrating 35 years. President Putin also congratulated the Philippine people on their recent Independence Day celebrations and recalled a historic visit of the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. to Russia. The meeting concluded with the two presidents attending a gala event alongside other government heads. These developments are important for Filipino overseas workers given the potential expansion of economic ties that could influence bilateral labor agreements and trade-related opportunities.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/991842/marcos-putin-trade-ties-meeting-russia/story/
