DAMASCUS, Syria – Seeking to promote access to justice for Filipino migrant workers, CDA Verzosa met with the Minister of Justice H.E. Ahmad Al-Sayed and the Assistant Minister for Legal Affairs, Mr. Nizar Sadekni, on 28 April 2022.

CDA Verzosa emphasized the friendly bilateral relations between the two countries, and extended her appreciation to the Ministry of Justice, for the assistance provided to the Philippine Embassy and the Filipino nationals in the repatriation process.

On their part, H.E. Minister Al-Sayed, together with Assistant Minister Mr. Nizar Sadekni, welcomed CDA Verzosa and conveyed appreciation for the support of the Philippines for Syria in the multilateral fora.

During this historic meeting, for the first time, international legal cooperation efforts between Philippines and Syria were discussed, in relation to protection of the rights of Filipino migrant workers.

CDA Verzosa also sought the support of the Minister of Justice for speedy resolution of cases of Filipino nationals. The Minister assured her of their support and immediately acted on the request of the Philippine government during the meeting.

Thereafter, CDA Verzosa proceeded to the office of Assistant Minister Mr. Nizar Sadekni to discuss other cases and negotiations regarding pending judicial concerns.

Towards the end of the call, CDA Verzosa thanked Minister Al-Sayed and Assistant Minister Sadekni for the meeting. On his part, H.E. Al-Sayed expressed his wishes for strengthening further cooperation between the two countries.

The Philippine Embassy in Damascus, Syria continues to provide legal assistance to Filipino nationals in Syria through its Syrian retainer lawyer, Atty. Omar Alzaeem, and its Assistance to Nationals section.

At the end of the call, CDA Verzosa presented her gifts from the Philippines to the two highranking officials.