Philippine president welcomed by Indonesia counterpart

Philippine leader Ferdinand Marcos Jr. affirmed deepening economic and security ties with Indonesia on Monday during the first overseas trip of his presidency.

Indonesia is the region's largest economy and a traditional first diplomatic destination for new leaders in the 10-member Association of Southeast Asia Nations.

At a joint news conference, Marcos said increasing the volume of trade between their nations had been important in their talks.

Widodo said his government has proposed to revitalize a ferry line connecting the border cities of Bitung and Davao and opening a direct flight between Manado, in eastern Indonesia and Davao, in the southern Philippines, to spur trade and their countries' economies.

The two leaders witnessed the signing of agreements for economic partnership, as well as cooperation in defense, border security and cultural areas.