In a landmark move to bolster global partnerships and deepen regional ties, the Republic of the Philippines and the Caribbean nation of Grenada have formally established diplomatic relations. The ceremonial signing took place on 08 May 2025 in St. Kitts and Nevis, marking a significant milestone in both countries’ foreign policy agendas.
The Joint Communique was signed by Philippine Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo and Grenada Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade and Export Development Joseph Andall, during Secretary Manalo’s historic visit to the Caribbean to attend the 28th Meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The agreement signifies a mutual commitment to foster greater understanding, friendship, and cooperation rooted in the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.
Strengthening Multilateral Ties
Although this is the formal establishment of diplomatic relations, the Philippines and Grenada have long engaged in cooperation across various multilateral fora. As active participants in numerous United Nations conventions and international organizations, both countries have consistently worked towards common goals such as the promotion of peace, sustainable development, and international solidarity. “This formalization of relations is a reaffirmation of the enduring bonds that unite our peoples,” Secretary Manalo remarked during the ceremony. “Though separated by oceans, we are joined by shared aspirations for peace, prosperity, and mutual respect. Filipinos living and working in Grenada have already laid the foundation of friendship between our nations.”
A Maritime Connection
Foreign Minister Andall echoed these sentiments, drawing attention to the maritime heritage shared by the two archipelagic states. “Our nations are bound by the sea—in spirit and in trade, in people and in history,” said Minister Andall. “While the Philippines gained its independence over 75 years before Grenada, our eyes are set on the future. We aim to deepen this newfound relationship across multiple domains of cooperation.” Minister Andall emphasized the significance of the diplomatic milestone amid ongoing global challenges, describing the moment as “a beacon on what is truly important.”
Expanding Diplomatic Horizons
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippines has lauded this development as part of a broader strategy to enhance engagement with the Caribbean region, where the Philippines now has formal diplomatic ties with 14 CARICOM member states. Secretary Manalo also met with foreign ministers from across the Caribbean during the COFCOR sessions held from 08 to 09 May, strengthening dialogues on regional collaboration, trade, and development cooperation.
The COFCOR, CARICOM’s key foreign policy body, plays a vital role in shaping the region’s external relations and fostering partnerships with international stakeholders.
The establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Grenada is expected to pave the way for greater cooperation in areas such as education, climate resilience, tourism, seafaring, and cultural exchange. This agreement, reached on the sidelines of a major regional summit, marks not only the expansion of diplomatic engagement but also a symbolic union of two island nations committed to a shared global future.
