Fifth round of Pakistan, Philippines bilateral policy consultations held

ISLAMABAD: The 5th round of the Pakistan-Philippines Bilateral Policy Consultations was held here on Thursday, Pakistan side was led by Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua, while Enirque A. Manalo, Undersecretary (Deputy Minister) for Policy, Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines headed the Philippines side.

The two sides reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and identified opportunities and possibilities for further cooperation including in the fields of security, counter-terrorism, economic development and trade, education, science and technology and agriculture, said a press release issued from Foreign Office.

Both sides expressed satisfaction at their ongoing collaboration at the UN and other multilateral for, especially through support to each other's candidatures.

The two sides discussed the evolving peace and security situations in Asia-Pacific region. The Foreign Secretary briefed the Philippines side on Pakistan's efforts aimed at promoting peace and security in Afghanistan, Pakistan-India relations, human rights violations in the Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir as well as on China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The Philippine side briefed Pakistan side on regional situation in the Pacific Region and security situation in Philippines. International issues of mutual interest including terrorism, and Pakistan's bid for Full Dialogue Partnership (FDP) status with ASEAN also came under discussion.

The Philippines side appreciated Pakistan's role in the fight against terrorism and sacrifices rendered by it in this regard. It also pledged to continue to support Pakistan’s bid for FDP status with ASEAN.

Pakistan considers Philippines an important country in the region, and enjoys cordial relations with it. The two sides agreed in principle to hold the 6th session of Consultations in Philippines next year at mutually convenient dates.