Sydney - Middle East Times Int’l: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has welcomed Philippines leader Ferdinand R Marcos on the president’s first official visit to Australia this week.

President Marcos addressed a joint sitting of the Australian Parliament as part of an upgraded strategic partnership signed by the countries’ leaders last year.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: “The Philippines is one of Australia’s key partners in Southeast Asia – we share a vision for an open, stable and prosperous region.

“The President’s historic address to the Australian Parliament articulated our shared vision for the region and for the thriving Australia-Philippines relationship.

“Our nations have never been closer, and realising opportunities through our Strategic Partnership will bring great benefits to Australians and Filipinos.”

A new Memoranda of Understanding was announced which will include:

● Greater maritime co-operation;

● Cyber and critical technology to counter cyber-attacks;  and

● Co-operation between national competition commissions.

The prime minister also announced they would give $20 million to support the Philippines to reform  its justice system.

Next week the Prime Minister will welcome President Marcos and other Southeast Asian leaders to Melbourne to commemorate the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-Australia Dialogue at the Australia-ASEAN Special Summit.