Philippines, Belarus Sign Visa Waiver Agreement for Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders

Philippine Ambassador to Belarus Igor G. Bailen and Belarusian Foreign Minister Maksim Ryzhenkov penned the waiver of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and official passports (Moscow PE Photo).

MOSCOW 27 November 2024 – Philippine Ambassador to Belarus Igor G. Bailen held a courtesy call with the Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maksim Vladimirovich Ryzhenkov at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 15 November 2024. The meeting was followed by the official signing ceremony of the Agreement on the Waiver of Visa Requirements for Holders of Diplomatic and Official Passports (Visa Waiver Agreement or VWA). 

Both parties highlighted the strengthening of bilateral relations between the Philippines and Belarus, noting the increasing momentum driven by high-level meetings, successful negotiations, and the recent conclusion of the Philippines-Belarus Political Consultations in Manila. FM Ryzhenkov described the relations as "warm" and emphasized the importance of fostering personal connections through face-to-face exchanges. He expressed Belarus’ openness to further initiatives to deepen the partnership.

The discussions also touched on key areas of cooperation, including economic and trade relations, tourism and aviation and multilateral engagement in international organizations.

The Philippine side also expressed appreciation for the arrangements made by the Belarusian MFA, including the Ambassador’s participation in the International Conference on Illegal Migration. Discussions during the call underscored both countries’ commitment to sustaining dialogue and exploring new avenues of collaboration. END

Philippine Ambassador to Belarus Igor G. Bailen (left) and Belarusian Foreign Minister Maksim Ryzhenkov (right) shake hands after signing the Visa Waiver Agreement for diplomatic and official passport holders. (Moscow PE Photo)

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