President’s Hall, Malacañan Palace
February 7, 2025

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. warmly welcomed Minister of Investment Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a courtesy call at the President’s Hall in Malacañan Palace.

Reaffirming the Philippines and UAE’s commitment to strengthening economic relations, the meeting centered on expanding trade, investment opportunities and people-to-people ties, where Minister Alsuwaidi conveyed the UAE’s recognition and appreciation to Filipino nurses.

He also noted the untapped investment potential in infrastructure, industrial mining, telecommunications, data centers, renewable energy and healthcare.

The UAE ranked as the country’s 18th largest trading partner in 2023, with approved investments amounting to PhP376.71 million. From January to September 2024, UAE investments have reached PhP82.59 million. Priority sectors for investment promotion include agribusiness, renewable energy, infrastructure, artificial intelligence and business process management.

To recall, President Marcos Jr. visited the UAE in November 2024 where he held a meeting with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and conveyed the nation’s appreciation for the care shown to Filipinos. Both leaders also explored new areas of cooperation beyond traditional sectors.

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