MANILA – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that the Philippines will participate in the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland. This decision follows his surprise meeting with Philippine counterpart Ferdinand Marcos Jr in Manila on June 3.
Just two days after Ukrainian President Zelensky’s visit to Singapore’s Shangri-La Dialogue, he met with Mr. Marcos Jr. in Manila. During the dialogue, Zelensky invited Asia-Pacific leaders to a peace summit on June 15-16.
Mr. Zelensky expressed satisfaction with the Philippines’ participation in the Global Peace Summit via his social media account. He emphasized the importance of Southeast Asian representation.
It remains unclear for now if Mr Marcos himself will attend the summit, or if a ranking official will be sent instead.
Their meeting during the Shangri-La Dialogue was postponed due to scheduling conflicts. Mr. Zelensky traveled to Manila on June 3 for the encounter.
Amid heightened tensions, both leaders voiced criticism against China during the security forum. The dispute centered on the South China Sea and conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
In his keynote address in Singapore, Mr Marcos hit out at what he described as the “illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive actions” being taken in the disputed South China Sea, though he did not directly name Beijing.
Participation in the Philippines peace summit signifies the country’s proactive stance on global issues. As the world watches, the Philippines stands ready to play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of the Ukraine war through diplomatic means.
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