Amir's visit serves as platform to discuss mutual interests: Secretary of Foreign Affairs of Philippines

Doha, Qatar: Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines HE Enrique Manalo said that the visit of the Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Ham...

Doha, Qatar: Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines HE Enrique Manalo said that the visit of the Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to Manila will serve as a platform for the leaders to discuss matters of mutual interest, as well as ways of increasing political and economic cooperation.

In an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), His Excellency said, "this is an opportune time to engage in meaningful conversations, noting that we will be celebrating the 43rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries next month in May."

He added that, "the Philippines and the State of Qatar have enjoyed more than four decades of cordial bilateral relations. I am optimistic that the friendship between our two countries will reach new heights in the years to come."

"While a long tradition of people-to-people exchanges serve as the backbone of Philippine-Qatari relations, we also wish to increase investment and boost economic cooperation," His Excellency explained.

He pointed out that the Philippines introduced reforms that simplified investment requirements and processes, and expressed hope that more Qatari businesses will participate in sectors that have been previously closed to foreign investors.