DFA chief heading to Uganda for NAM Summit

MANILA, Philippines — Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on Tuesday said that he will visit Kampala, Uganda for the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) from January 19 to 20.

Manalo said the Philippines fully supports Uganda’s chairmanship in the NAM for 2024-2027, and will look into improving relations with African countries and other countries who will be in the NAM.

“The Philippines looks forward to enhancing bilateral relations with African counterparts and other NAM countries, as well as strengthening cooperation and mutual support in multilateral fora, including for the Philippines’ bid for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for 2027-2028,” Manalo said in his departure statement.

“This trip will be an excellent opportunity to engage with countries from Africa and other regions to boost South-South cooperation and promote the shared interests and perspectives of developing countries in shaping a more inclusive, equal and just international economic order in the 21st century,” he added.

Manalo also shared that he will also “convey the Philippines’ solidarity” on issues such as climate change and sustainable development.

He added that Information and Communications Technology Secretary Ivan John Uy will be part of the Philippine delegation to the Third South Summit of the Group of 77 which will also be held in Kampala, Uganda, on January 21 to 22.