Philippines and Turkey Commit to Further Bolster Bilateral Cooperation

Undersecretary Manalo and Deputy Undersecretary Yardim discussed a wide array of bilateral cooperation between the Philippines and Turkey at the 4th Philippines-Turkey political consulltations held in Manila on 19 October 2017.

03 November 2017, MANILA – The 4th Philippines-Turkey political consultations were held in Manila with both sides firmly committing to pursue cooperation in various areas that will further bolster relations on October 19.

Undersecretary for Policy Enrique A. Manalo led the Philippine delegation while the Turkish delegation was led by Deputy Undersecretary Umit Yardim.

The two countries expressed readiness to sign the Protocol for Cooperation in the Field of Higher Education and welcomed the recent signing of the MOU on Tourism Cooperation and Declaration of Intent (DOI) on Defense Cooperation.  

Both sides also recalled the commitment expressed by Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter S. Cayetano and Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu in August 2017 to strengthen collaboration against international terrorism, particularly through enhanced cooperation between PH and Turkish security and intelligence officials. An agreement towards this end was recommended.  

Undersecretary Manalo thanked Turkey for its active support to the peace process, and welcomed its interest to participate in the rebuilding of Marawi and adjoining communities.

He also thanked Turkey for its assistance in support of communities affected by armed conflicts.

“I highlighted that PH was prepared to consider further assistance provided that such assistance respects PH’s sovereignty and does not interfere in internal concerns,” Undersecretary Manalo said.

Undersecretary was joined by Philippine Ambassador to Turkey, H.E. Maria Rowena Mendoza Sanchez, and officers of the Office of European Affairs and Office of the Undersecretary for Policy. END