Philippines, Colombia mull cooperation vs illegal drugs

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and Colombia have discussed potential anti-narcotics cooperation as the Latin American nation outlined areas where it can offer expertise to the Philippine government in its illegal drug campaign.

Non-resident Ambassador to Colombia Marichu Mauro, ahead of her presentation of credentials to Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos, recently met with the Ministry of External Relations director-general of Asia, Oceania and Africa Alfredo Ramos to discuss areas of cooperation between the Philippines and Colombia.

She outlined opportunities for bilateral cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the areas of defense, peace process, trade and investments, education, culture, sports, climate change and cooperation in combating illegal drugs. Mauro and Ramos discussed the last at length.

Ramos outlined areas where Colombia can offer expertise to the Philippine government in its anti-drug campaign.

The ambassador was keen on taking advantage of the good relations between the two countries and deepening relations with Colombia.

Mauro also congratulated Ramos on the opening of the Colombian embassy in Manila last year. She announced the Philippines’ intention to open an embassy very soon to further strengthen bilateral ties with Colombia. Ramos said this was “excellent news.”