President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday said he would lead a “ministerial-level study group” between the Philippines and the United States to boost climate-smart agriculture initiatives.

The President made the remark in a post-visit report held at the St. Regis Hotel in Washington DC.

“In addition to existing bilateral policy dialogue platforms and working groups, we agreed to institutionalize a Ministerial-level study group to advance cooperation on climate-smart agriculture, which I myself will lead,” Marcos told the press.

Assessing his five-day “productive” visit to the United States, the President said his discussions with US business community “affirm the optimism with which international investors view the Philippines today.

“It was with great pride that I received their praises for the talent, ingenuity, and work ethic of Filipinos, which has become the main driving force for bringing their investments to our country,” said Marcos.

The chief executive capped his visit with a speaking engagement at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), where he shared his reflections on why he thinks the Philippines and the United States “have been and will continue to be naturally drawn to each other.”

“Beyond our treaty alliance, we are bound by our shared values and our commitment to mutual prosperity,” said Marcos.

According to Marcos, Manila and Washington will have to “forge closer economic ties and ensure that our bilateral partnership works for our peoples. That will truly bring our alliance, partnership, and friendship into the 21st century.” (PND)