UK Trade Envoy’s 8th Visit to the Philippines Boosts Bilateral Ties
Richard Graham CMG MP, the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to the Philippines, made his 8th official trip to the country from April 24-27, 2023. His mission? To turbocharge trade and investment links and deepen collaboration in cutting-edge sectors.
Power Moves in Offshore Wind, AI, and Cyber
During the visit, Graham focused on expanding ties in offshore wind, cyber security, and artificial intelligence. The UK is eager to ramp up cooperation and investment in these future-facing industries with the Philippines.
He met with top officials including Director General Joel Marciano (PhilSA), Secretary Alfredo Pascual (DTI), Secretary Jaime Bautista (DoTR), and leaders from the Department of Agriculture and private sector.
As host of a key reception, Graham brought together stakeholders driving the offshore wind agenda like Department of Energy’s Undersecretary Rowena Guevara. He reaffirmed UK support for the Philippines’ switch to renewable energy. This builds on recent UK-backed offshore wind study tours held in February for Philippine officials.
Tech Talks and London Tech Week Spotlight
Following the UK’s launch of its International Tech Strategy in March, Graham engaged with the Philippine delegation at London Tech Week. The event is a global tech celebration focusing on AI, quantum computing, semiconductors, telecoms, and bioengineering.
Among the Philippine delegates was Martha Sazon, CEO of GCash, who shared her company’s story on the LTW Transformation stage. The UK strategy aims to deepen tech partnerships and innovation cooperation with countries like the Philippines.
Growing Trade – A Success Story
“As always, it is a great pleasure to visit the Philippines, especially with our growing and stronger trade relationship. Bilateral trade surged over 30% last year to hit £2.3 billion,” said Graham. “I look forward to working with those I met this week to keep pushing UK-Philippines trade and investment to new heights.”
This visit underscores the UK’s strong commitment to boosting trade across the Indo-Pacific region—with the Philippines a key partner.
