Iranian, Philippine FMs discuss regional issues and bilateral ties

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi held a phone conversation with his Philippine counterpart, Maria Theresa Lazaro, in which they discussed recent regional and international developments, along with bilateral relations.

Earlier, Manila requested that Iran ensure the safe passage of Philippine-flagged vessels and oil shipments, Caliber.Az reports, citing the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs said it is seeking for Iran to designate the Philippines as a “non-hostile” country, despite the latter’s close defence ties with the United States, in order to ensure the safe passage of Philippine-flagged vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

Lazaro emphasised that the designation is “vital for the protection of our seafarers and our energy supply.”

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov