OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE FUTURE
The past 70 years of bilateral relations between the Philippines
and France transpired in an era characterized by significant global historical changes. The end of World War II saw the rise of multilateral systems and institutions such as the United Nations as well as regional groupings such as the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the European Union. This period also bore witness to rapid and groundbreaking scientific and technological advances. It also ushered in the rise of Asia as an important political and economic region to reckon with. The diversity between the Philippines and France appears to be wide but the past 70 years of bilateral relations have gradually narrowed the gap. There have also been a number of earlier historical ties that have reinforced bilateral relations. The reciprocal summit visits in the Philippines and France in 2014 and 2015 have generated momentum with various bilateral agreements signed and mechanisms instituted which have served to invigorate bilateral relations even further. However, there is still a lot of room to foster greater understanding with each other to nurture and build a partnership for the future. The manifold challenges of the next 70 years are what both countries need to consider in charting a roadmap that could bring bilateral relations to an even higher plane. On the domestic front, the Philippines and France are both faced with the demands of improving their economies, social services, increasing employment, and strengthening social cohesion, among others. Globally, the 377
DISCOV _INT PP 050719.indd 389
5/7/19 8:55:38 PM
