MANILA—The Philippines and Palestine signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Political Consultations during the first visit of a Palestinian Foreign Minister to Manila since the establishment of bilateral relations in 1989.

Foreign Minister of Palestine Varsen Aghabekian Shahin met with Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro at the DFA Temporary Headquarters in Double Dragon Tower, Pasay City. The MOU establishes a structured mechanism for regular bilateral consultations, allowing both countries to review relations, identify areas of cooperation, and promote common interests. Inaugural political consultations are expected to be convened next year.

“This is the very first visit of a Palestinian Foreign Minister to the Philippines since the formal establishment of our bilateral relations thirty-six years ago, on 04 September 1989,” Lazaro said.

The two countries also agreed to expedite the conclusion of a Visa Waiver Agreement for holders of diplomatic, official, and special passports, which is expected to foster closer cooperation and interaction among officials.

Lazaro said the Philippines is ready to provide technical and capacity-building assistance to Palestine, particularly in technical and vocational education and training (TVET), under the Technical Cooperation Council of the Philippines (TCCP), which promotes South-South cooperation.

During their discussions, Lazaro and Shahin also exchanged views on regional issues. Lazaro highlighted the Philippines’ upcoming ASEAN Chairship next year and emphasized the country’s commitment to upholding international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), in resolving maritime disputes.

Foreign Minister Shahin briefed Lazaro on developments in the Gaza peace process. Lazaro reiterated the Philippines’ support for the “two-state solution” and the establishment of an independent and viable Palestinian state, calling it essential for lasting peace and stability in the Middle East.

“The future of Philippines-Palestine relations is bright and promising. I look forward to a stronger and more dynamic cooperation between our two countries, under the shared vision of peace, stability and prosperity,” Lazaro said.