In a significant move to bolster trade ties and cooperation, Qatar and the Philippines have signed nine agreements aimed at enhancing investment flows and addressing global challenges such as climate change and human trafficking.
President Marcos Jr. and Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani witnessed the signing of these agreements after their meeting in Malacañang, highlighting the commitment of both nations to deepen collaboration across various sectors.
Among the accords signed are agreements on combating human trafficking, promoting seafarers’ welfare, enhancing sports and tourism cooperation, and addressing climate change challenges. Notably, an agreement on the waiver of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and special passports was also inked, facilitating smoother travel between the two countries.
One of the key agreements is focused on technical cooperation on capacity building on climate change between the Climate Change Commission of the Philippines and Qatar’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. This agreement aims to foster knowledge sharing and promote transformative climate action aligned with the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Additionally, agreements on combating human trafficking and recognizing seafarers’ certificates underscore the shared commitment to upholding labor protection standards and ensuring maritime safety.
The MOU on tourism and business events seeks to boost tourist flows between both countries, while the agreement on sports aims to facilitate cooperation between sports federations and promote reciprocal exchanges in sports and physical education.
The state visit of the Qatari Amir marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations, with both leaders expressing optimism about the potential for enhanced cooperation across various sectors. Acknowledging the vital contributions of the Filipino community in Qatar, the Qatari leader emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between the private sectors of both countries.
With around 242,600 Filipinos residing and working in Qatar, and remittances amounting to $895.33 million in 2022, the agreements are poised to further strengthen economic relations and foster mutual prosperity.
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