PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will travel to Kazan, Russia next week to participate in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean)-Russia Commemorative Summit, Malacañang said Thursday.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President will be in Kazan from June 17 to 18 for a visit that also coincides with the 35th anniversary of Asean-Russia relations.
"Russia is an Asean dialogue partner and as Asean chair, the Philippines will lead the review of the progress of our cooperation and relations with Russia," Castro said in a press briefing.
"This will also include discussions on the next steps to further deepen and expand relations between the Philippines and Russia and between Asean and Russia," she added.
Asked why the Philippines is seeking to expand engagement with Russia despite sanctions imposed by some countries over the war in Ukraine, Castro said that the trip was primarily linked to Manila's responsibilities as Asean chair.
On possible power-related discussions, Castro said Energy Secretary Sharon Garin is interested in exploring options on energy transition and fuel diversification.
"According to her, there are no details yet, she is planning to discuss the matter with the Ambassador of Russia to the Philippines," she added.
Asked whether the government is studying the feasibility of purchasing Russian oil, Castro said the matter would form part of the discussions being explored by the Energy department.
The Palace said more details regarding the president's participation in the summit, including possible bilateral meetings, will be announced by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
When asked if Marcos would hold separate talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Castro said the DFA would provide details during its briefing on Monday.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed over the weekend that Marcos would meet with Putin during the event.
“We look forward to welcoming in Kazan the heads of all Asean member states, especially the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr.,” Lavrov wrote in his article posted on the Russian foreign affairs ministry website on June 5.
Lavrov said the summit is set to become the “centerpiece of the commemorative events” marking the 35th anniversary of Asean-Russia relations.
Russia has been an Asean dialogue partner since 1996, with cooperation spanning political-security, economic, and socio-cultural areas.
