Islamabad, January 29, 2026: The Philippine Embassy in Islamabad, represented by Dr. Emmanuel R. Fernandez, Ambassador of the Philippines to Pakistan, participated in the ASEAN Committee in Islamabad (ACI) Chair ship Handover Ceremony, hosted by Ambassador Rongvudhi Virabutr at the Royal Thai Embassy. The Ambassador was accompanied by Third Secretary and Vice Consul Rain Mendoza.
The event began with a meeting of ACI Heads of Mission, during which ASEAN ambassadors reviewed key projects implemented under Thailand’s chairship, discussed initiatives to be sustained or further strengthened, and exchanged views on proposed activities and priorities for upcoming chairships in 2026. The discussions reaffirmed the collective commitment of ASEAN missions in Islamabad to enhance ASEAN’s visibility, unity, and engagement with Pakistan.
The formal handover ceremony was later held at Ambassador Rongvudhi’s residence, with Mr. Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, Additional Secretary for Asia Pacific at Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, attending as Guest of Honor. In a symbolic gesture, Ambassador Rongvudhi passed the ceremonial ACI gavel to the incoming chair, Indonesia, represented by H.E. Mr. Chandra Warsenanto Sukotjo, Ambassador of Indonesia to Pakistan.
The ceremony marked the successful conclusion of Thailand’s ACI Chairship, which was widely praised by ASEAN missions for its dynamic leadership, impactful initiatives, and strengthened engagement with Pakistani counterparts and stakeholders.
Following the ceremony, ACI Heads of Mission were hosted to a luncheon featuring authentic Thai cuisine, bringing the occasion to a warm and celebratory close.
The Philippine Embassy expressed deep appreciation to the Royal Thai Embassy for its exemplary leadership and the valuable opportunities provided to ACI during its term. It also conveyed full support to the incoming Indonesian chair and looked forward to working closely with the Indonesian Embassy under Ambassador Sukotjo’s leadership to advance ASEAN cooperation and initiatives in Islamabad.
The Philippines reaffirmed its firm commitment to ASEAN solidarity, constructive dialogue, and collaborative engagement with Pakistan in pursuit of regional peace, stability, and shared prosperity.
