Carney arrives in Manila for ASEAN summit, seeks trade pact with Philippines

Prime Minister Mark Carney has journeyed to Manila, Philippines, for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit. The gathering is aimed at finalizing a trade pact with the Philippines and expanding Canada's alliances with other nations comprising ASEAN, a collection of 11 countries. Carney is set to meet with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his stay in Manila.

Vina Nadjibulla, co-founder of the Centre for Strategic Statecraft, emphasizes that Carney's visit to Manila presents a chance to achieve tangible benefits from the agreements Canada has signed with Asian countries in recent times. Southeast Asia is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies, with numerous countries relying on Canada for energy and materials.

Queen’s University professor Stéphanie Martel, who specializes in ASEAN and international diplomacy, notes that the region warmly welcomes Canada's trade and defense support. However, ASEAN also seeks broader cooperation with Ottawa on matters such as climate change resilience.