Russia, PH eye agreement to protect Filipinos in Moscow

Moscow has agreed to renew efforts to forge an agreement with the Philippines that would provide increased protection of the rights and welfare of Filipinos in Russia, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

Philippine Ambassador to the Russian Federation Carlos Sorreta met with Evgeny Ivanov, director of the Consular Services Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, early this month to discuss the issue.

During the meeting, Ivanov assured the Philippines that discussions with the Russian government on the proposed agreement were going well and that Moscow would formally respond with its own version shortly, Sorreta said.

He said both parties agreed that the deal must expand to existing international conventions on consular relations and shall serve as a comprehensive document covering all aspects of consular relations.

“One of the first things we did after I assumed my post here in Moscow in 2015 was to propose this agreement, given the importance we place on protecting our nationals here in Russia, Sorreta said.

He said the agreement would bolster the Philippine Embassy’s ability to help Filipinos in need of consular assistance in Russia.
The agreement is also expected to extend protection to Russian nationals in the Philippines.