The Philippines and Qatar signed on Sunday, April 26, several agreements related to culture, technical education, health and investments, paving the way for expanded cooperation and intensified relations between the two countries.

Among those signed was the Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of culture between the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Qatar and the Philippines’ National Commission for Culture and the Arts. This agreement will promote and encourage bilateral cultural exchanges of musical, theatrical and artistic groups as well as artistic exhibitions and translation of literary works to foster appreciation and understanding of Qatari and Philippine cultures.

His Excellency Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdurrahman Al-Thani, Minister of Foreign affairs signed for Qatar and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo signed for the Philippines.

A Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of health between Qatar and the Philippines was also signed. His Excellency Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, Minister of Public Health signed for Qatar while Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial signed for the Philippines. This agreement aims to promote cooperation in the areas of health services and medical research through exchange of expertise.

Also a Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation in the field of technical vocational education and training was signed by the two countries. This agreement will facilitate exchange of professionals in technical areas and in technology institute management as well as encourage exchange of technology programs among private enterprises.

His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Abdul Wahed Ali Al Hammadi, Minister of Education and Higher Education signed for Qatar and TESDA Chief Guiling Mamondiong signed for the Philippines.

An agreement on investments was also signed Sunday. The signatory for Qatar was His Excellency Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim Mohamed Al Thani, the Minister of Economy and Trade and Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez signed for the Philippines. This agreement will intensify economic cooperation between the Philippines and Qatar by encouraging and creating favorable conditions for investments.

Prior to the signing of agreements, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar, received President Rodrigo Duterte in an official welcome rites at Amiri Royal Palace. It was followed by a bilateral meeting between them and their officials.###PND