Jordan and the Philippines held high-level political
consultations focusing on deepening cooperation in multiple sectors including
agriculture, trade, consular affairs, defence, labour, and education. Both
nations expressed mutual commitment to fostering stronger institutional ties
while addressing regional humanitarian concerns.
High-Level Political Consultations in Amman
As reported by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of
the Philippines, the inaugural political consultations between Jordan and the
Philippines took place in Amman, Jordan on 7 November 2024, marking 48 years
since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1976. The Philippine
delegation was led by Honorable Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, Undersecretary for
Bilateral Relations and ASEAN Affairs, while Jordan was represented by
Secretary General for Diplomatic and Expatriates Affairs Majed Thalji
Al-Qatarneh. These discussions centred on strengthening bilateral ties across
agriculture, trade, consular, defence, labour, and education sectors. Both
parties exchanged views on key regional and international issues of mutual
concern, notably Jordan’s efforts in mobilising the international community to
alleviate the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. The meeting concluded with
a mutual commitment to deepening cooperation and a plan for the next bilateral
consultations to be hosted in Manila by the Philippines.
Economic and Institutional Cooperation Advances
According to an official statement by the Philippine Embassy
in Jordan dated 5 October 2025, Philippine Ambassador to Jordan, H.E. Wilfredo
C. Santos, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Dr. Rana Mohammed Obeidat, newly
appointed Director-General of the Jordan Food and Drug Administration (JFDA).
Ambassador Santos extended congratulations to Dr Obeidat and expressed
confidence in her leadership. The discussion focused on strengthening
cooperation in food and drug regulation to benefit public health and safety,
highlighting the impact on over 42,000 Filipinos residing in Jordan. Both sides
agreed to facilitate the entry of Philippine food products into the Jordanian
market and explore Jordanian market access in the Philippines. Dr Obeidat
affirmed the JFDA’s readiness to engage with the Philippines, reinforcing
stronger institutional and economic partnerships.
Engagements on Broader Regional and International Concerns
The consultations also included dialogues on pressing issues
such as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. As reported by Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro
during the consultations, both nations acknowledged the need for greater
international action to address the dire humanitarian conditions. This aspect
reflected the diplomatic sensitivity and shared regional interests underpinning
their cooperation.
Ongoing Cultural and Economic Links
Beyond official diplomatic talks, there have been continued
efforts to deepen people-to-people and business ties. Ambassadors and
delegations have presented opportunities for collaboration in creative
industries and other sectors as part of ongoing dialogues between Philippine
representatives and Jordanian business associations. These exchanges aim to
complement governmental efforts by enhancing cultural understanding and
business cooperation.
Further Developments and Diplomatic Activities
Additional diplomatic activities include the Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro’s leadership in inaugurating the newly redeveloped Philippine Chancery in Amman on 20 October 2025. This event marked a milestone for the Philippines’ diplomatic presence in Jordan and symbolised the commitment to enhanced bilateral relations.
The political consultations and related diplomatic visits underscore the sustained commitment by both Jordan and the Philippines to expand cooperation. They reflect a growing partnership aimed at benefiting their citizens, fostering regional stability, and addressing humanitarian issues through collaborative dialogue and initiatives.