23 December 2015 – The new Iranian Ambassador-designate to the Philippines, H.E. Ambassador Mohammad Tanhaei, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario today. During his call, Ambassador Tanhaei expressed appreciation for the warm welcome extended to him by the Secretary. Ambassador Tanhaei expressed his eagerness to work with the Department and enthusiasm to know better the Philippines and its culture.
Secretary del Rosario congratulated Ambassador Tanhaei for his government’s successful negotiation and legislative approval of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which hopes to usher a new chapter in Iran’s relations not only with the Philippines but also with the international community.
The two officials discussed a wide array of possible areas of cooperation, such as in science and technology, agriculture, investment, manufacturing, tourism, and counter-terrorism. Ambassador Tanhaei described his government’s “Look East Policy” that puts ASEAN, particularly the Philippines, in its foreign policy priorities.
Despite challenges during the sanctions years, relations between the two countries have remained firm. The Philippines and Iran reached a milestone year in 2014 having celebrated the 50th anniversary of their bilateral relations.
Ambassador Tanhaei arrived in Manila on 18 December 2015. He brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge that he has accumulated over the 24 years from serving Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in various capacities, and from his foreign postings in Tokyo, Japan (2000-2004) and Beijing, China (1993-1997). END