TRADE Undersecretary Allan Gepty has called on Russia and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) to regard the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) as a strategic partner, rather than merely an export market, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said on Sunday.
Speaking at the Russia-Asean Business Forum in Kazan on June 17, Gepty said Asean’s rise as a global manufacturing and innovation hub is driven by its young workforce and free trade agreements, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
“For Russia and the Eurasian Economic Union, Asean presents opportunities not only as an export destination, but also as a strategic partner in infrastructure development, energy cooperation, manufacturing, technology transfer, logistics and innovation,” he said.
Gepty also highlighted the Philippines’ Priority Economic Deliverables under its 2026 Asean chairmanship, which seek to strengthen cooperation in industry, infrastructure, energy and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
He called on stakeholders to translate shared goals into concrete benefits for businesses and communities through stronger supply chains, better connectivity and sustainable development.
The DTI said it remains committed to advancing trade, investment and industrial development while supporting the country’s integration into regional and global value chains.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently visited Kazan for the Asean-Russia Commemorative Summit, which marked the 35th anniversary of Asean-Russia relations.
Also present were Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Dave Gomez, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Leo Herrera-Lim, and Philippine Ambassador to Russia Igor Bailen.
Russia has been an Asean dialogue partner since 1991 and became a strategic partner in 2018.
