(CNN Philippines) Metro Manila — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. held a bilateral meeting with United States President Joe Biden in New York City Thursday morning (US time) on the sidelines of the 77th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Marcos and Biden were expected to tackle a host of issues — including mutual cooperation, trade, and direct investments, according to Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles.

The US President earlier said he would discuss the South China Sea, COVID-19, and renewable energy with his Filipino counterpart.