The Philippines and Sri Lanka have formalized a new chapter in their diplomatic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in diplomatic training.

On 22 April 2025, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique A. Manalo and Sri Lankan Ambassador Dr. Chanaka Talpahewa signed the MoU at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) headquarters in Pasay City, representing the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) of the Philippines and the Bandaranaike International Diplomatic Training Institute (BIDTI) of Sri Lanka, respectively.

Both officials emphasized the value of enhancing diplomatic skills and knowledge-sharing between the two nations. Secretary Manalo expressed optimism that the agreement would foster stronger institutional linkages and more robust training exchanges between FSI and BIDTI.

Ambassador Talpahewa, in his remarks, described the signing as a “testimonial” to the Philippines’ commitment to its longstanding ties with Sri Lanka. He also thanked FSI Director General Francisco Noel R. Fernandez III for his efforts in helping bring the MoU to fruition, noting that discussions began as early as 2018.

The signing was witnessed by key officials from both countries, including DFA Undersecretary Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega, DFA Chief Coordinator Bernadette Fernandez, HRMO Executive Director Greg Marie C. Mariño, and DFA’s ASPAC Executive Director Rona Beth G. Goce. Officials from the DFA and the Sri Lankan Embassy in the Philippines were also in attendance.

The MoU sets the groundwork for future collaboration in research, training programs, and capacity building initiatives, further reinforcing the shared goal of fostering a more skilled and globally connected diplomatic corps.