PH, Kazakhstan Reaffirm Closer Ties

Philippine Ambassador Carlos D. Sorreta (left) and Deputy Minister Akylbek Kamaldinov pose for a photo after a meeting on February 22 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Photo: J. Valdez

01 March 2018 MOSCOW – The Philippines and Kazakhstan affirmed friendly relations and the pursuit of closer cooperation during a meeting in Astana on February 22. Philippine Ambassador to the Russian Federation Carlos D. Sorreta, who is also Non-resident Ambassador to Kazakhstan, met with Deputy Minister Akylbek Kamaldinov at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to plan the course of Philippines-Kazakhstan bilateral relations.  Concrete proposals on Energy, Trade and Investments, and Civil Aviation were reviewed along with other agreements in the pipeline. The welfare of around 500 Filipino teachers, engineers and household service workers in Kazakhstan was also discussed.

Ambassador Sorreta also congratulated Kazakhstan on its assumption of the Presidency of the United Nations Security Council in January and expressed appreciation for Kazakh initiatives in security, counter-terrorism and non-proliferation of nuclear weapons. He also invited Kazakhstan to participate in the Philippines’ high economic growth trajectory by investing in the country, including the government’s “Build, Build, Build” program of comprehensive infrastructure development.

Deputy Minister Kamaldinov said that the Philippines had been a reliable partner over the 26 years of bilateral relations. He noted the Philippines’ increasing profile in international affairs under President Duterte, especially the deeper relations with neighboring Russia, China and other non-traditional partners. He said that Kazakhstan is prepared to have enhanced diplomatic, economic and people-to-people relations with the Philippines.

“Kazakhstan is the largest economy in Central Asia and presents various opportunities for the Philippines. We will continue to work closely so that our good political cooperation will translate to gains in trade, investments and even tourism,” Amb. Sorreta said. He added, “The protection of our OFWs in the country will also remain a top priority.” END

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