DFA Undersecretary Charles C. Jose Meets with Spanish Secretary of State
DFA Undersecretary Charles C. Jose (3rd from L) and Spanish Secretary of State Diego Martínez Belío (2nd from L) are flanked by Philippine Ambassador to Spain Philippe J. Lhuillier (rightmost) and Spanish Ambassador to the Philippines Miguel Utray Delgado (leftmost).
MADRID 24 March 2025 — Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs and International Economic Relations Charles C. Jose met with Spanish Secretary of State for Foreign and Global Affairs Diego Martínez Belío at Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation in Madrid on 20 March 2025.
During their meeting, Undersecretary Jose and Secretary of State Belío reaffirmed the enduring friendship between the Philippines and Spain, and explored ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation—particularly in the areas of trade and investment, high-level and people-to-people exchanges, as well as mutual support for candidatures in various multilateral fora. The Philippines also welcomed Spain’s strong support for the early conclusion of negotiations toward a comprehensive, balanced, and modern Philippines–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Both officials also discussed ongoing developments in the West Philippine Sea and Ukraine, and affirmed their shared commitment to upholding the rule of law and the rules-based international order—not only within their respective regions but also on a global scale.
H.E. Philippe J. Lhuillier, Philippine Ambassador to Spain, accompanied Undersecretary Jose to the meeting. The Undersecretary also acknowledged the important role of the Philippine Embassy in Madrid in promoting and expanding Philippines-Spain bilateral relations across multiple sectors.
Undersecretary Jose was in Madrid to participate in the 11th Philippines-Spain Forum, held in Madrid and Cuenca on 19 to 21 March 2025. END
Philippine and Spanish officials headed by Undersecretary Jose (R) and Secretary of State Martínez Belío (2nd from bottom L) discuss ways to strengthen Philippines-Spain bilateral relations.