EU leader visits Philippines

Welcome: Marcos gesturing to von der Leyen during her visit to the Malacanang Presidential Palace in Manila. — AFP

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was holding talks with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr in a sign of improving ties after a stormy period between the EU and his predecessor over human rights.

Von der Leyen arrived in Manila Sunday night for the first such top-level visit in nearly six decades of relations with the Philippines. Her visit is aimed at strengthening diplomatic, trade, security and overall relations, European and Philippine officials said, adding that she came at Marcos’ invitation.