Dy welcomes EU trade chair, strengthening PH-EU ties

HOUSE Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III recently hosted Bernd Lange, the Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade (INTA), in a courtesy call at the Legislators Executive Lounge. The meeting served to reaffirm and strengthen the long-standing political, economic, trade, and investment ties between the Philippines and the European Union.

Speaker Dy emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between the Philippines and the EU, particularly in the areas of trade and investment. He noted that the Philippines is committed to fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts European investors and promotes mutually beneficial trade relations. “We value our partnership with the European Union and recognize the significant opportunities for growth and development that can be achieved through closer cooperation,” Dy stated.

Bernd Lange, as the Chair of INTA, plays a crucial role in shaping the EU’s trade and investment policies. The INTA committee is responsible for directing and overseeing the EU’s common commercial policy and external economic relations. Its responsibilities include handling financial and trade relations with third countries, managing the common external tariff, facilitating trade, negotiating and monitoring bilateral and multilateral trade agreements, ensuring technical harmonization under international legal instruments, and maintaining relations with global trade bodies such as the World Trade Organization.

The courtesy call provided an opportunity for both parties to discuss ongoing and potential future collaborations. Key topics included enhancing trade facilitation measures, promoting sustainable development, and addressing global trade challenges. Both Speaker Dy and Chair Lange expressed optimism about the future of PH-EU relations and pledged to continue working together to advance their shared interests.