The French government has restated its invitation for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to conduct a state visit to France as it congratulated the Philippines in its 125th Independence Day anniversary.

In a letter to Marcos, France President Emmanuel Macron conveyed his best wishes on the occasion of the Philippine Independence Day and highlighted the “fruitful relations and the rich cooperation” between the two states.

“President Macron restated, on that occasion, expressed (sic) his wish to host President Marcos in France for a State visit,” the French Embassy in Manila said Tuesday.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has yet to comment when asked for updates regarding discussions on the possible trip.

French Ambassador to Manila Michèle Boccoz earlier said Macron has sent a written letter of invitation for Marcos. And should the meeting happen, the two governments intend to make the trip as “as fruitful as possible.”

Diplomatic ties between France and the Philippines were formally established in 1947.

Over the years, Manila and Paris have strived to partner in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region and upholding international law; fighting against climate change, and promoting cultural exchanges.

In marking 75 years of relations, the French Embassy in Manila had been organizing a series of cultural activities since June 2022. (PNA)