By Roy Lie Atjam
The Embassy of the Philippines proudly hosted a “Meet and Greet Cocktail Reception” in celebration of H.E. Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro‘s visit, the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, on May 18. This historic occasion not only honored her visit but also marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Netherlands.
This visit is particularly significant, as it is the first official visit by a Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs to the Netherlands in 33 years—since Secretary Roberto Romulo’s visit in 1993. Secretary Lazaro engaged in important discussions with the Netherlands Foreign Minister, Mr. Tom Berendsen, at the distinguished Johan de Witt House, dating back to 1655, in The Hague. Both Ministers pledged to enhance the regularity of high-level political and economic exchanges, specifically through bilateral consultations.
ASEAN They discussed key topics such as technology, transnational crime, and other vital issues that will fortify cooperation. Their commitment to deepen collaboration on water management and bolster supply chain resilience promises substantial benefits for both nations. A wide range of subjects was thoroughly discussed, paving the way for a brighter future together.
The discussions featured the Ambassador of the Philippines in the Netherlands, H.E. Mr. Eduardo Malaya, along with various stakeholders. With the Philippines assuming the chairmanship of ASEAN this year, both parties recognized the Netherlands’ proactive involvement in ASEAN initiatives.
In addition, the two Ministers seized the opportunity to address the global ramifications of security challenges emerging in Europe, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific. Following the constructive dialogue, a joint statement was released, underscoring their shared commitments.
In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Malaya expressed his enthusiasm: “It’s an honor to welcome everyone to the Embassy of the Philippines for this special reception honoring the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro. It’s a significant moment for any ambassador to host a head of state or Foreign Minister. Moreover, we gather to celebrate the remarkable 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Netherlands.”
The Ambassador went on to say, “this reception being the last engagement of the Secretary for this trip, I can say that the Visit has been highly successful, with the Secretary having had a substantive meeting with Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen, an important Joint Statement issued that sets out the strategic direction for cooperation, and a well-received address at a forum at the prestigious Clingendael Institute, among others. Our reception tonight nicely caps off the Secretary’s highly productive day in The Hague. This is the cherry on top, so to speak.
Madame Secretary, the Embassy team and I wish to convey how truly grateful we are for taking time in your very busy – being also the Chair of the ASEAN Ministerial Meetings, among others– to visit the Netherlands.
If the Embassy team and I have been able to deliver in some ways in carrying out our mission.
it is because we have close collaborators and steadfast partners in undertaking our work.
A great part of our accomplishments, we owe to many of the people gathered here tonight.
Once again, welcome Madame Secretary and the delegation and our partners and friends in the business and Filipino communities. Together, let us continue working toward a future marked by greater prosperity and enduring partnership between the Philippines and the Netherlands.”
Mabuhay po kayong lahat! Thank you, dank u wel, maraming salamat.
The Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, confidently addressed the gathering, expressing her deep admiration for the significant achievements made and underscoring the critical importance of her visit. Joining her were two other speakers joined her: former Dutch Ambassador Saskia de Lange and Ms. Jofelle Tesorio. As a token of appreciation, the Embassy presented Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro with a personalized Delft blue tile that prominently features her official portrait. The event concluded with an engaging reception on the lawns of the chancellery, complete with cocktails, live music, and ample opportunities for productive networking.
