PM Carney Strengthens Canada’s Ties with Philippines and Malaysia Ahead of ASEAN Summit
Prime Minister discusses trade, Indo-Pacific security, AI, and energy in calls with leaders from Southeast Asia
Ottawa, ON – Prime Minister Mark Carney held separate calls this week with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to reinforce Canada’s partnerships in Southeast Asia and expand cooperation on trade, technology, and regional security.
Canada–Philippines: Trade, Security, and Shared Grief
During his July 3 call with President Marcos Jr., Prime Minister Carney emphasized the strong economic and cultural ties between the two countries, noting that nearly one million Canadians are of Filipino descent.
Both leaders reflected on the Lapu-Lapu Day tragedy in Vancouver earlier this year and offered condolences to those affected.
The conversation also focused on expanding bilateral trade and investment. Carney expressed Canada’s interest in advancing a free trade agreement with the Philippines and reaffirmed the shared goal of promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific, grounded in the rules-based international order.
Prime Minister Carney extended an invitation to President Marcos Jr. to visit Canada. The two agreed to remain in close contact.
Canada–Malaysia: Expanding Energy and Tech Partnerships
Also on July 3, Carney spoke with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to discuss the dynamic trade relationship between the two countries. The leaders agreed to strengthen collaboration in areas of shared strategic interest, including clean and conventional energy, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
Both leaders confirmed they look forward to continuing discussions in person at the upcoming ASEAN Summit, which Malaysia will chair.
Canada continues to deepen its engagement in the Indo-Pacific through expanded diplomacy, economic cooperation, and joint efforts on climate and security challenges.
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