10 April 2014- Philippine Ambassador to South Africa Constancio R. Vingno Jr. presented his credentials as non-resident Ambassador to the Kingdom of Swaziland to His Majesty Mswati III on March 27,  at the Royal Palace in Mbabane.  

In the afternoon of March 27 at the King’s palace, formalities leading to the actual presentation of credentials to King Mswati III included an inspection of the honor guards, the playing of the Philippine National Anthem, and a photo opportunity.

During their discussions after the presentation ceremony, Ambassador Vingno recalled the King’s state visit to the Philippines in 2008, and the signing of the agreements on Economic, Technical and Cultural Cooperation, and on the Establishment of a Bilateral Consultative Mechanism between the Philippines and Swaziland. Ambassador Vingno also mentioned the significant level of trade between the Philippines and Swaziland.

In his response, King Mswati III welcomed Ambassador Vingno as Philippine Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotenriary accredited by President Benigno S. Aquino III. He also recalled the warm hospitality extended to him during his state visit to the Philippines in 2008.

The King expressed eagerness to further strengthen the warm and cordial relationship between the Philippines and Swaziland, especially now that a Philippine envoy has been accredited to the Kingdom. The King said that relations need to be translated into meaningful cooperation, specifically mentioning the need to improve and increase the exchange of goods and services, and promote trade and investment between the two countries. The King also stated that the Kingdom is ready to welcome Filipino businessmen, citing the friendly investment climate and skilled labor force of Swaziland.

King Mswati III also mentioned his awareness of the Filipino community in Swaziland, saying that they have been living peacefully in the Kingdom. He also remarked that Filipinos are similar to Swazis in their cheerfulness, way of life, and other qualities.

Ending the ceremony, the King requested to convey his best wishes to President Aquino, and wished him good health, as well as prosperity for the Filipino people. He also gave assurance that the Kingdom will extend its full assistance to the Ambassador for the success of his mission.

Prior to the presentation of his credentials,  Ambassador Vingno called on Chief Mgwagwa Gamedze, Foreign Minister of Swaziland, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Mbabane, to present copies of his Letter of Credence and the Letter of Recall of his predecessor.

In discussions with Minister Gamedze, the Ambassador  mentioned that follow-up actions on the Philippines-Swaziland agreements are essential, and that a Philippine delegation should be able to reciprocate a visit to Swaziland.

Foreign Minister Gamedze noted the warm relationship between Philippines and Swaziland, and expressed the necessity to enhance trade between our two countries. The Minister also mentioned that “Filipinos in Swaziland open doors for many things”, noting the high regard for overseas Filipinos in the Kingdom.

On March 28, Ambassador Vingno called on Undersecretary Melusi Masuku (Political) at the Foreign Ministry, where he recalled the bilateral agreements signed in 2008 and that concrete actions should be undertaken to revive those agreements.

Ambassador Vingno   also met with the leader and members of the Filipino community in Swaziland.  END