Manila, Aug. 28 -- Amid its ongoing war challenges, Ukraine marked its 34th Independence Day in Manila as it sought to broaden its partnership with the Philippines and called on the international community to stand firm in defending sovereignty and building lasting peace.

At its celebration in Pasay City on Wednesday evening, Ukraine Ambassador to the Philippines Yuliia Fediv said Kyiv seeks to expand its trade, defense, and cultural ties with Manila.

Fediv noted the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Manila on June 3 last year, calling it as more than a milestone, but a message to the world that Kyiv and Manila are ready to build a new era of cooperation, as both sides have demonstrated clear intent and political will ...