MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines and Iran have started negotiations that would allow the transfer of sentenced persons and the extradition of criminals between the two countries.
During the 2nd Joint Consular Commission Meeting between the Philippines and the Islamic Republic of Iran, officials of both governments also explored the forging of agreements in the areas of visa waiver for diplomatic passport holders, mutual legal assistance, combating of terrorism and transnational crimes and the mutual recognition of academic degrees issued by their respective educational institutions.
The talks covered a wide range of consular issues, particularly on matters that affect the assistance to and protection of nationals like notification of arrests and detention, and access to prisoners.
The two countries also explored the proper environment and administrative arrangements that will be conducive to the expansion of scientific and educational cooperation.
Both countries expressed confidence that negotiations for these agreements would be completed for signing during their 5th Joint Commission Meeting this October. – Pia Lee-Brago