Philippine Embassy Participates in ASEAN Committee in Islamabad Chairship Handover Ceremony

Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: The Philippine Embassy in Islamabad, represented by H.E. Dr. Emmanuel R. Fernandez, Ambassador of the Philippines to Pakistan, participated in the ASEAN Committee in Islamabad (ACI) Chairship Handover Ceremony hosted by H.E. Ambassador Rongvudhi Virabutr at the Royal Thai Embassy. The Ambassador was accompanied by Third Secretary and Vice Consul Ms. Rain Mendoza.
The event commenced with an ACI Heads of Mission meeting, during which ASEAN Ambassadors reviewed key projects implemented under Thailand’s chairship, discussed initiatives to be sustained or enhanced, and exchanged views on proposed activities and priorities for the forthcoming chairships in 2026. The discussions reaffirmed the collective commitment of ASEAN Missions in Islamabad to strengthen ASEAN visibility, unity, and engagement with Pakistan.
The formal Chairship Handover Ceremony was subsequently held at the residence of Ambassador Rongvudhi, with Mr. Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, Additional Secretary for Asia Pacific at Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, serving as Guest of Honor. In a symbolic gesture, Ambassador Rongvudhi passed the ceremonial ACI gavel to the incoming Chair, Indonesia, represented by H.E. Mr. Chandra Warsenanto Sukotjo, Ambassador of Indonesia to Pakistan.
The ceremony marked the successful conclusion of Thailand’s ACI Chairship, which was widely commended by ASEAN Missions for its dynamic leadership, impactful initiatives, and strengthened engagement with Pakistani counterparts and stakeholders.
Following the ceremony, the ACI Heads of Mission were hosted to a luncheon featuring authentic Thai cuisine, bringing the occasion to a warm and celebratory close.
The Philippine Embassy expressed its appreciation to the Royal Thai Embassy for its exemplary leadership and the opportunities extended to the ACI during Thailand’s term. It also conveyed its full support to the incoming Indonesian Chair and reiterated its readiness to work closely with the Indonesian Embassy under the leadership of Ambassador Sukotjo in advancing ASEAN cooperation and initiatives in Islamabad.
The Philippines reaffirmed its strong commitment to ASEAN solidarity, constructive dialogue, and collaborative engagement with Pakistan in the pursuit of regional peace, stability, and shared prosperity.