03 June 2017, MANILA - Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter S. Cayetano and Ambassador Franz Jessen of the European Union (EU) Delegation in Manila conducted frank, constructive and friendly discussions wherein they discussed bilateral issues, with the goal of strengthening PH-EU relations.

Immediately after the meeting, Secretary Cayetano hosted a luncheon for Ambassador Jessen and German Ambassador Gordon Kricke, Hungarian Ambassador Jozef Bencze, Spanish Ambassador Luis Calvo and Swedish Ambassador Harald Fries. Also in attendance were officials from the EU delegation, Mr. Enrico Strampelli, Head of Development Cooperation and Mr. Walter Van Hattum, Head of the Trade Section.

During lunch, Secretary Cayetano thanked the EU for supporting the Philippines through the years.   The Secretary pledged to build bridges with the EU and with European countries by maintaining open dialogue and enhancing cooperation.

Secretary Cayetano updated the EU Ambassadors of the latest developments in the country's anti-illegal drugs campaign and the Philippine government's willingness to work with the international community on this issue.

He cited the Philippines’ Universal Periodic Review (UPR) presentation before U.N Human Rights Council and also explained how some countries immediately came to the aid of the Philippines in its anti-narcotics campaign; from building rehabilitation centers to providing training and equipment to our law enforcers.

During the luncheon, the guests agreed to engage in succeeding dialogues to discuss and resolve specific issues.

Deputy Speaker Pia S. Cayetano, DFA Undersecretary for Policy Enrique A. Manalo and European Affairs Assistant Secretary Maria Cleofe Natividad accompanied Secretary Cayetano during the luncheon.  END