The Philippines is deeply concerned over the decision of the Swedish government to close its embassy in Manila when relations between the two countries are flourishing in all fields, the Philippine government said on Friday.
In a statement, Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo expressed regrets over Stockholm's decision to shut down its embassy considering that the bilateral trade between the countries is growing.
"Our investments are increasing, and our tourism exchanges are rising," he said.
"In addition to the economic and consular imperatives, the Philippines and Sweden cooperate on many issues of mutual concern and significance such as counter-terrorism, migration, human trafficking, development cooperation, interfaith dialogue and health," he added.
Nevertheless, Romulo said the Philippine Embassy in Stockholm will not be closed and will continue to operate.
"The Department wished to reassure the public that the Philippine Embassy in Stockholm will continue to strengthen the bridges of friendship and partnership between the Philippines and Sweden," he said.
The Swedish government has announced to close its Embassy in Manila earlier this month citing budgetary constraints.
In a statement posted on its website, it said the decision will be effective June 30, 2008 at the latest.
"The decision to close the embassy is part of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs' continuous review of its organization abroad and assessment of its status in relation to changes in the surrounding world and changing requirements for monitoring and service," the embassy said.
"This is an ongoing process which sometimes leads to Sweden opening new or closing existing embassies and consulates. The Ministry for Foreign Affairs must also adapt its organization abroad to its budget and meet the demands for streamlining that apply to all ministries and government agencies," it added.
After the closure, applications for visas will be handled by another Schengen Embassy in Manila.
The embassy said an honorary consulate will be established to provide basic consular support to Swedish citizens.
Other duties, such as commercial and political issues, will be handled by another Swedish embassy in the region through accreditation.
Until further notice, the embassy will perform its duties as usual.
Source: Xinhua
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