24 August 2004 -- Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto G. Romulo will hold talks on Thursday, 26 August 2004, with H.E. Dr. Kamal Kharrazi, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, on a wide range of RP-Iran relations.

Dr. Kharrazi, who is on an Asian regional trip, will make an official 2-day visit to the Philippines on 25-26 August 2004 upon the invitation by former Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia Domingo Albert.  During his visit, the Iranian Foreign Minister is expected to make courtesy calls on President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, Foreign Affairs Secretary Romulo, Speaker Jose C. De Venecia Jr., Secretary of Trade and Industry Cesar A.V. Purisima, and Secretary of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Q. Deles.

In his first meeting with foreign officials since assuming the DFA post on 24 August 2004, Secretary Romulo said "the visit of Foreign Minister Kharrazi is an important milestone in RP-Iran relations."  bilateral ties is characterized by a deep understanding between our two countries. Iran has been our staunch ally and supporter in our efforts to secure a lasting peace for the Southern Philippines. The Iranian government has also committed to assist in the economic development of Mindanao through several projects including the approval of a USD 100 Million credit facility in 2000 for the Mindanao Investment Group and the donation of medicines through the ARMM. Iran has also been most supportive of our country's bid for observer-status membership in the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC)."

Secretary Romulo said that during Dr. Kharrazi's visit, the Philippines will seek to enhance the strong bilateral relationship with Iran through economic cooperation and the holding of seminars and workshops that will foster understanding of each other's culture and traditions pursuant to the 2003 Makati Declaration on the Dialogue Among Civilizations. The Philippines will also seek Iran's continued support for the peace process in Mindanao. - END