Philippines, Dutch officials discuss open trade routes

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May 22, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines —  Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen underscored the importance of open trade routes and upholding the law of the sea as the Philippines and the Netherlands commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro undertook an official visit to the Netherlands from May 17 to 18 and met with Berendsen in The Hague.

The trip is the first official visit of a Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs to the Netherlands in 33 years, after that of Secretary Roberto Romulo in June 1993.

Lazaro wrote on X that “We mark the 75th anniversary of Philippines-Netherlands relations this year with my official visit to the Netherlands… strengthening partnerships in trade and investments, renewable energy, water management, connectivity and promoting more cultural and academic exchanges between our people in the years to come. Looking forward to sustained maritime cooperation, both in ASEAN and in the multilateral fora.”

Also on X, Berendsen said, “Partnership between Europe and Asia matters now more than ever in an uncertain geopolitical environment. Good to welcome Secretary Lazaro to The Hague as the Philippines and the Netherlands mark 75 years of diplomatic relations.”

“We held fruitful talks on strengthening trade, resilient supply chains and sustainable growth.  From Manila to Rotterdam, open trade routes are vital for our regions. We also exchanged views on protecting the international rules-based order and upholding the law of the sea,” he said.