THE Philippines and the Slovak Republic marked a milestone year in their bilateral relations during a diplomatic gathering of Indo-Pacific countries hosted by the Slovak government in Bratislava last Dec. 8.
The event highlighted a year of positive developments in Philippine-Slovak relations, including Slovakia’s decision to open an embassy in Manila, expanded cultural exchanges through music and sports, and advanced discussions toward the conclusion of a bilateral labor agreement.
Officials said these initiatives reflect growing mutual interest in building practical, forward-looking cooperation between the two countries.
PICTURE PERFECT Philippine Ambassador and Permanent Representative Evangelina Bernas (fifth from left), together with Slovak Foreign Minister Juráj Blanar (eighth from left) and other Heads of Missions accredited to Slovakia pose for a photo during the Vin d’honneur for Indo-Pacific countries. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The Philippines was among a group of countries invited to the vin d’honneur reception, signaling Manila’s increasing engagement with partners in Central and Eastern Europe and its expanding role in Slovakia’s outreach to the Indo-Pacific region.
During the gathering, Slovakia formally launched its “Strategic Concept for Engagement in the Indo-Pacific,” identifying the region as a key foreign policy priority. Slovak officials emphasized the country plans to deepen diplomatic, economic, and security cooperation with Indo-Pacific partners in line with broader European Union policies.