President Barzani, Philippine Ambassador Discuss ASEAN Ties
President Masoud Barzani and Philippine Ambassador Charlie Pacaña Manangan discussed ASEAN relations, economic development and terrorism threats during talks in Pirmam.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - President Masoud Barzani received Philippine Ambassador to Iraq Charlie Pacaña Manangan in Pirmam on Saturday for talks on developing relations with Southeast Asian countries, ASEAN's economic and international role, and the threat terrorism poses to regional and global security.
According to a statement from Barzani Headquarters, Manangan met President Barzani in his capacity as a representative of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
The ambassador expressed his pleasure at meeting President Barzani and voiced appreciation for the struggle and sacrifices of the people of Kurdistan.
Manangan also briefed President Barzani on ASEAN's history, its approach to international relations and the economic capabilities of the association and its member countries.
The ambassador conveyed ASEAN's interest in developing closer relations and gaining greater familiarity with both the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, according to the statement.
President Barzani welcomed the Philippine diplomat and spoke positively about the experiences of Southeast Asian countries, particularly their struggles for freedom and their subsequent economic recovery and development.
The meeting provided an opportunity for the two sides to discuss possible closer engagement between the Kurdistan Region and countries represented within the Southeast Asian association.
Security was another subject of discussion.
President Barzani and Manangan exchanged views on the dangers posed by terrorism and its implications for security at both the regional and international levels.
ASEAN-related outreach formed a central part of the ambassador's visit, with Manangan presenting the organization's experience and conveying its desire for stronger engagement with the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.
For President Barzani, the meeting also provided an opportunity to acknowledge the political and economic experiences of Southeast Asian nations and their paths toward development.
Saturday's talks therefore focused on two broad areas: expanding mutual understanding and relations between the Kurdistan Region, Iraq and Southeast Asian countries, and exchanging views on shared security challenges posed by terrorism.