PH, Netherlands Hold Inaugural Bilateral Consultations in The Hague
PHOTO: The inaugural Philippines-Netherlands Bilateral Consultations was formally convened by Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Policy Enrique A. Manalo (right) and Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Matthijs van der Plas (left) on 30 January 2020 in The Hague.
Both sides discussed different areas of cooperation between the Philippines and Netherlands including trade, maritime affairs, and security. They also discussed regional developments and other matters of common interest.
During the afternoon session, Undersecretary Manalo and Ms. Karin Mossenlechner, Director, Asia and Oceania Department shared views on regional issues. Both sides exchanged gifts at the conclusion of the meeting.
Undersecretary Manalo and Ms. Mossenlechner are joined by Dutch Ambassador to the Philippines Saskia de Lang (leftmost), Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary of European Affairs Ma. Amelita C. Aquino (second from right) and Deputy Director for Asia and Oceania Arjen van den Berg (rightmost).
Undersecretary Manalo also paid a courtesy call on Minister of Foreign Affairs Stef Blok (right). Both officials discussed further strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries, noting the upcoming 70th anniversary of the establishment of Philippines-Netherlands diplomatic relations in 2021.