Slovak Foreign and European Affairs Minister Juraj Blanár (Smer-SD) met Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro in Manila on Thursday to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in several areas.
According to Slovakia's Foreign Ministry, the discussions focused on developing economic and trade activities, establishing regular political consultations and Slovakia's candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
The ministers also addressed opportunities for closer cooperation in labour mobility, healthcare, education and defence. Another topic was Slovakia's accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, which is to be formalised during a ministerial meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Manila.
During his stay in Manila, the Slovak foreign minister is also scheduled to officially open Slovakia's first resident embassy in the Philippines. The establishment of a permanent diplomatic presence is intended to support the development of bilateral relations and facilitate cooperation between the two countries.
At the ASEAN ministerial meeting, Blanár is expected to sign Slovakia's instrument of accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, marking a further step in strengthening the country's engagement with the region.
Source: TASR
