MANILA - President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday formally received the credentials of four new ambassadors at Malacanan Palace. Duterte welcomed ambassadors Folakemi Ibidunni Akinleye of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Borhan Uddin of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, William John Carlos of Ireland, and Rduta Dana Matache of Romania. During her presentation, Akinleye pledged to work "tirelessly" during her stay in office to improve Nigeria-Philippine friendship while engaging in mutually beneficial cooperation in the areas of trade, medical exchange programs, information technology, maritime security, education, and tourism. Duterte, meanwhile, expressed hope that bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest would be further enhanced, especially as the two countries mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations next year. "We look forward to deeper engagement bilaterally and in various multilateral fora to advance our shared aspiration for peace and prosperity for our peoples," he said. Uddin, on the other hand, expressed Bangladesh's willingness to enhance further collaboration in garments and ceramic industries, pharmaceuticals, shipbuilding, glass fiber industries, agricultural products, information technology, education, and health sectors. Duterte said Uddin's arrival comes at a "very auspicious time," noting that the Philippines and Bangladesh celebrate the 50th or golden anniversary of their "long-standing" diplomatic relations. "I hope to see more bilateral exchanges especially as we work towards the whole post-pandemic recovery and sustainable growth," he said. Carlos said Ireland aims to significantly develop trade and investment links, as well as people-to-people exchanges with the Philippines. He also recognized the large Filipino diaspora in Ireland as playing a very critical and positive role, especially in the health sector. In accepting Carlos' credentials, Duterte welcomed the opening of the Irish Embassy in Manila this year, noting that the Philippines is looking forward to revitalizing its ties with Ireland, particularly in the economic sphere. "Robust trade and investment relations between the Philippines and Ireland and the larger European community would contribute to faster and inclusive recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic," he said. Duterte said the Philippines is counting on Ireland's support on the resumption of the negotiation on the Philippines - European Union (EU) free trade agreement. He also thanked Ireland for the hospitality extended to Filipinos living and working in Ireland. Meanwhile, Matache emphasized the need to "step up" the political and diplomatic dialogue between Romania and the Philippines, especially their cooperation in international maritime, cybersecurity, disaster management, resilience-building, tourism, and trade. She also expressed hope that the Philippines would decide to reopen its embassy in Romania. Duterte noted that the Philippines shares Romania's enthusiasm in deepening bilateral engagement, especially as the two countries commemorate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations next year. "I hope that you will take this opportunity to organize worthwhile activities that would contribute to our mutual goals. We stand ready to work with you in this regard. Rest assured of the Philippine government's cooperation as you endeavor to enhance and strengthen our bilateral relations," he said. (PNA) }