DFA Undersecretary Lazaro Discusses PH Foreign Policy and Regional Issues at Roundtable in Zurich

DFA Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and ASEAN Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro participates in a roundtable discussion with the Center for Security Studies and the Asia Society Switzerland.

ZURICH 20 NOVEMBER 2024 – DFA Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro outlined the Philippines’ strategic vision for the Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing a commitment to a rules-based international order and the peaceful resolution of disputes, during a roundtable discussion co-organized by the Center for Security Studies (CSS) and the Asia Society Switzerland in Zurich, Switzerland on 15 November 2024.

During her remarks, Undersecretary Lazaro underscored the importance of ASEAN centrality and the importance of upholding international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea.

She further underscored that the Philippines remains steadfast in its commitment to diplomatic engagement and dialogue with all parties, while remaining committed to upholding its sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction. The Philippines will continue to play an active role in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific, working with like-minded partners in advancing peace, stability and prosperity in the region. END