Philippines and Cyprus Hold Inaugural Political Consultations in Nicosia

Assistant Secretary Deena Joy D. Amatong (4th from L) and Political Director Thessalia Salina Shambos are joined by Philippine non-resident Ambassador to Cyprus, H.E. Giovanni A. Palec and the members of the Philippine and Cypriot delegations

NICOSIA 30 May 2025 – The Philippines and Cyprus held their inaugural political consultations in the Cypriot capital of Nicosia on 26 May 2025. The Philippine side was led by DFA Assistant Secretary for European Affairs, Ms. Deena Joy D. Amatong, while the Cypriot delegation was headed by Political Director Thessalia Salina Shambos of Cyprus’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

The two sides took stock of the Philippines and Cyprus’ bilateral relations across a number of key issues such as trade and investment, maritime affairs, research and innovation, education, labor, culture, and tourism. 

“There is a lot of potential in our bilateral relations and the Philippines stands ready to work with Cyprus to realize this potential,” Assistant Secretary Amatong said.

The two sides also exchanged views on pressing regional and global issues such as climate change and the security situation in the Indo-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East.

The Philippines and Cyprus celebrated the 45th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations on 6 March 2025. END

Assistant Secretary Deena Joy D. Amatong (2nd from bottom R), accompanied by Philippine non-resident Ambassador to Cyprus, H.E. Giovanni A. Palec (3rd from bottom R) and the other members of the Philippine Delegation, engage in discussions with the Cypriot delegation led by Political Director Thessalia Salina Shambos (center L).