Philippine Ambassador to Iran Roberto Manalo and the Governor of the Iranian province of West Azerbaijan, Reza Rahmani, recently held bilateral meetings to strengthen economic relations between their countries.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) stated that the meeting explored opportunities for the Philippines and Iran to boost economic ties through the trade of agricultural products.
They also focused on potential exchange of expertise and bilateral investments.
“Ambassador Roberto G. Manalo visits Urmia City in the West Azerbaijan Province of Iran to familiarize himself with Urmia’s cultural, economic, and tourism potential, while also strengthening diplomatic and municipal relations with the Philippines,” it noted.
Manalo also attended the 8th International Grape Festival at the Chi Chest Coastal Village of Urmia upon the invitation of the Urmia Mayor Aydin Rahmani Rezaieh and Asian Mayors Forum Secretary General Dr. Hamidreza Gholamzadeh.
In January 2026, the Philippines and Iran will celebrate their 62nd anniversary of diplomatic relations.
