In a historically significant event marking a new chapter in bilateral relations, Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro hosted Palestinian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Varsen Aghabekian Shahin for a bilateral meeting today. This visit is a major milestone, as it is the first-ever visit of a Palestinian Foreign Minister to the Philippines since the formal establishment of diplomatic relations on September 4, 1989.
The meeting underscores the commitment of both nations to deepen their partnership through practical cooperation and structured dialogue.
Secretary Lazaro and Minister Shahin held productive discussions focused on pursuing a more robust and practical cooperation across several key areas of mutual interest, including:
Higher Education
Consular Cooperation
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)
The two top diplomats also exchanged views on significant regional and international matters, including:
The Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship in 2026.
Developments in the Middle East and the West Philippine Sea.
Updates on the ongoing peace process in Palestine, provided by Minister Shahin.
A cornerstone of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Political Consultations. This vital agreement establishes a formal, structured bilateral mechanism that will:
Provide a regular platform for officials of both parties to review their bilateral relations.
Identify new areas of cooperation.
Promote common interests on the global stage.
Engagement and Courtesy Call
As part of her itinerary, Foreign Minister Shahin delivered a lecture entitled “The Palestinian Predicament: Latest Developments in Gaza and the West Bank” at the Foreign Service Institute on November 17, 2025, engaging with the Philippine diplomatic community.
Minister Shahin is also scheduled to pay a courtesy call on President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. during her visit, further highlighting the significance of this diplomatic exchange.
