Manila: The Philippines and Qatari governments engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening their bilateral relations, particularly focusing on political and economic cooperation, during a joint consultation meeting in Manila. The foreign affairs ministries from both countries convened for the 2nd Joint Consultation Meeting (JCM) on Political Matters at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Office.
According to Philippines News Agency, the high-level meeting reviewed ongoing cooperation in political and economic matters, and explored partnerships in energy, defense, health, education, youth, sports, and tourism. Discussions also included potential exchanges of high-level visits to further solidify bilateral relations. The heads of the delegations exchanged views on regional matters affecting both nations.
The Philippine delegation was led by DFA Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, while the Qatari side was headed by Dr. Ahmad Hassen M.A. Alhammadi, Secretary General of the Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Following the meeting, Lazaro and Alhammadi signed an aide memoire, affirming both countries' readiness to strengthen ties and outlining steps to enhance existing partnerships.
During the visit of Qatar's Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Manila last year, the two nations signed several agreements to boost cooperation in tourism, investment, climate change, sports, seafarers' welfare, and combatting human trafficking. The third JCM will be hosted by Qatar, with the date yet to be confirmed. These political consultations are the primary dialogue mechanism between the foreign ministries of the Philippines and Qatar.