ANGARA SEEKS STRONGER TIES WITH JAPAN
THROUGH ACADEMIC EXCHANGES

Senator Edgardo J. Angara is set to explore possible academic collaboration between the Philippines and Japan, specifically student and faculty exchange, joint research and other academic activities, during his upcoming official visit to Tokyo for the 20th Annual Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum. Other regional issues such as disaster preparedness, nuclear safety, climate change, Millennium Development Goals, drug trafficking, energy and food security will also be discussed at the said forum which will be held from January 8 to 12.

"The upcoming parliamentary summit will be a good opportunity to strengthen ties and promote academic partnership between the Philippines and Japan, as well as with other Asia-Pacific nations", said Angara.

"Through more academic exchanges and scholarships, both countries will gain better understanding of each other's unique culture and tradition. Moreover, Filipinos would gain entry into the international academic community and possibly get more opportunities for work and advanced studies," he stressed.

Apart from the forum, Angara will also meet with business organizations and key officials to discuss bilateral relations and exchange views on several regional issues, particularly on disaster risk reduction and management.