THE Governments of Papua New Guinea and the Republic of Philippines have signed and exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on policy consultation at San Francisco, California.
Minister of State Assisting the Prime Minister Hon. Justin Tkarchenko signed the MoU on behalf of the PNG Government with the Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs of Philippines, Hon. Enrique A. Manalo.
Minister Tkatchenko acknowledged Hon. Manalo and his delegation for availing time amidst their busy APEC schedule to sign the MoU.
He said the MoU will serve as the mechanism to enhance communication and coordination between the two Governments on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest.
“This should set a more structured approach to discuss issues of interests in the area of trade and investment, climate change, health, education, etc.”
Secretary Manalo affirmed that the signing of the MoU would establish a formal mechanism to discuss a wider range of issues and add depth to the bilateral relations between the two countries.
He said the process will also address some of the pending arrangements in the area of trade and investment, reciprocal visa waiver agreement, education to name a few.
“This is a significant step to strengthen our relationship going forward,” Secretary Manalo said.
The participants will hold regular biannual meetings with Philippines to host the inaugural policy consultation early next year.
On behalf of the PNG Government, Minister Tkatchenko expressed gratitude and appreciation to the Government of Philippines for the continued support and cooperation in PNG’s development aspirations.
