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Philippines Secretary of Foreign Affairs Maria Theresa Lazaro visited the UAE, where she met with Minister of State Saeed Al Hajeri. They discussed strengthening bilateral relations and signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking the Philippines' first free trade agreement with a Middle Eastern country.

The CEPA aims to enhance trade and investment options, while a Memorandum of Understanding on Defense Cooperation was also agreed upon, focusing on advanced defense technologies. President Ferdinand R.

Marcos Jr. announced the signing of these agreements during his visit to the UAE. He emphasized the importance of Filipino contributions to the UAE and the commitment to protecting Overseas Filipino Workers' welfare.