(Bandar Seri Begawan, 3rd) In order to further strengthen the cooperative relationship between Brunei and the Philippines in the fields of agriculture and fisheries, the two countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on agricultural and fisheries cooperation today at the Conrad Hotel in Manila, Philippines.
The Government of Brunei was represented by Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, Dato Manap Sani, who signed the MOU, while the Government of the Philippines was represented by Secretary of Agriculture Francisco Laurel.
The signing ceremony of the MOU was held during the 47th ASEAN Ministers of Agriculture and Forestry Meeting and related events hosted by the Philippines, attended by the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism.
According to the MOU, the cooperation between the Philippine Department of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, and the Brunei Department of Agriculture will be further strengthened.
The MOU brings numerous benefits to both countries, including cooperation and information sharing in the fields of agriculture and fisheries, covering knowledge, experience, and the latest technologies to enhance productivity and product quality; developing human resources capabilities by leveraging the Philippines' expertise, including dispatching experts to Brunei or launching training programs in the Philippines; as well as expanding market access and investment in agriculture and fisheries, encouraging private sector participation, strengthening national competitiveness and export capabilities, and promoting economic diversification.
Brunei's Ambassador to the Philippines, Megawati, also attended and witnessed the signing ceremony.