The Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), reaffirmed its commitment to continue developing close relations with both the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) following the latter’s formal exit from the bloc.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs remains committed to developing positive relationships with both the UK and the EU,” the agency said in a statement.

The DFA urged individuals and corporations doing business in the UK to take note of the withdrawal agreement and other related documents that may affect their respective industries.

The UK officially left the EU following the European Parliament’s ratification of the withdrawal agreement between the two parties on January 31.

Effective February 1 to December 30, the UK enters an 11-month transition period.

For international conventions, agreements, and arrangements entered into by the EU, the UK will be treated as an EU Member State and will continue to be bound by EU rules during the transition.

Meanwhile, the DFA deferred any question on the subject to the British Embassy in Manila and the EU Delegation to the Philippines. (PNA)