DFA UNDERSECRETARY LAZARO CONDUCTS WORKING VISIT TO MALAYSIA

Putrajaya, 28 February 2025 — DFA Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and ASEAN Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro conducted a working visit to Malaysia on 25 February 2025.

Undersecretary Lazaro met with Deputy Secretary General (Bilateral Affairs) of the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dato’ Ahmad Rozian bin Abd. Ghani, to follow-up on discussions during the 8th Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) last October including finalization of pending bilateral agreements. They also discussed strengthening cooperation in the maritime domain and exchanged views on the current situation in the South China Sea.

In addition, both sides discussed the importance of addressing humanitarian concerns of Filipinos in Sabah.

Undersecretary Lazaro also met with Raja Dato’ Nushirwan Zainal Abidin, Director General of the Malaysian National Security Council. They discussed strengthening security cooperation and fostering ongoing exchanges between the two countries, building upon the strong friendship between President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Both sides affirmed the importance of addressing humanitarian concerns of Filipinos in Sabah and exploring potential areas for maritime cooperation.

Undersecretary Lazaro also reiterated the Philippines’ unwavering support for Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairship.

The Philippines and Malaysia looked forward to the convening of the 9th Philippines-Malaysia Joint Commission Meeting in Manila later this year, which is expected to further strengthen the bilateral ties between the two countries. END

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