Manila:Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro formally welcomed new Indonesian Minister for Foreign Affairs Arrmanatha 'Tata' Christiawan Nasir in Manila during his introductory visit after being appointed last month.

According to Philippines News Agency, the meeting between Lazaro and Nasir focused on the progress of bilateral relations, emphasizing the historical, cultural, and geographical ties shared by the Philippines and Indonesia as maritime neighbors and founding ASEAN members.

The two diplomats recalled key outcomes from the 8th Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation held in Jakarta on April 23. They reiterated their commitment to enhance cooperation across areas such as political, economic, maritime security, border management, boundary delimitation, legal and consular cooperation, development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and people-to-people relations.

Lazaro and Nasir agreed to expedite the formulation of a new Philippines-Indonesia Plan of Action for the next five years, aimed at strengthening and deepening their bilateral partnership, particularly in fostering regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

Additionally, they discussed regional and global issues, with a focus on ASEAN and the United Nations. They highlighted the need for ongoing efforts to tackle transboundary haze and advance progress on the situation in Myanmar.

As the Philippines prepares to chair the 49th ASEAN Summit in November, Lazaro appreciated Indonesia's support and emphasized their shared commitment to ASEAN unity and addressing regional challenges.

The Philippines and Indonesia, which established diplomatic relations on November 24, 1949, are set to celebrate 77 years of formal ties this month.