Philippines and Cuba Forge Agreement on Political Consultations

(Left) Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo and (right) Non-Resident Ambassador of Cuba to the Philippines Florentino Batista González sign the Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultations between the Philippines and Cuba.

MANILA 15 December 2023 – The Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines represented by Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba represented by Non-Resident Ambassador of Cuba to the Philippines Florentino Batista González marked a significant milestone in diplomatic relations between the  Philippines and Cuba with the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultations today, 13 December 2023, in Manila. This agreement establishes the mechanism to officially hold bilateral consultations and that will serve as a platform for discussions to promote cooperation on various areas between the two countries.

In his brief remarks following the signing of the MOU, Secretary Manalo said, “As we celebrate 77 years of our diplomatic relations, the signing of this agreement shows our countries’ commitment to strengthen our current relations and work towards common goals. Anchored on our shared historical ties, we look forward to a vibrant partnership with Cuba, particularly in the areas of education, health, trade, agriculture, science and technology, maritime issues, climate change, and disaster risk reduction and management, among many others.”

Ambassador Batista, in his response, said, “Cuba and the Philippines share a common history and face similar challenges. Thus, this MOU shows the concerted action of both countries to address these issues, such as on environment, education, and disaster reduction, for the benefit of our people. It is my honor to represent the government and people of Cuba today, and we look forward to the hundreds of years of relations between our countries.”

Both highlighted the importance of the agreement in purposefully enhancing bilateral ties and opening more avenues for cooperation at the multilateral level.

“Recognizing that the Philippines and Cuba are in the same pursuit of inclusive and sustainable growth, forging this agreement cements our cooperation further. We look forward to more fruitful opportunities and stronger relations between our countries in the future,” the Secretary added.

The inaugural meeting for Political Consultations between the Philippines and Cuba is planned to be held in 2024, and will highlight the 78th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. END

(Center) Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo, (left) Non-Resident Ambassador of Cuba to the Philippines Florentino Batista González, and (right) Office of American Affairs Deputy Assistant Secretary Gunther Emil Sales pose for a photo opportunity after the signing ceremony.

Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo delivers his remarks.

Non-Resident Ambassador of Cuba to the Philippines Florentino Batista González delivers his response.