MANILA— United States Ambassador to Manila Sung Kim on Thursday expressed confidence that Washington will “seriously” consider a request to serve as third-party mediator in the diplomatic spat between Philippines and Kuwait.
In a press briefing, Kim said he recognizes that Manila takes “very strong interest” in the protection of Filipinos overseas and are working hard to make sure that receiving countries treat Filipino workers consistent with the rule of law, human rights as expected in any society.
He said, however, he has not heard of the proposal nor someone had approached them to play as third country mediator yet.
“Since I haven’t been approached about this, it’s hard for me to comment on whether we would play a role, but I have confidence that the two countries will be able to resolve the situation,” Kim said.
Optimistic the two countries will be able to iron out their issues and revive normalcy in their relations, Kim said US extends its “best wishes” to both countries as the two start discussions to resolve the situation.
“We’re always willing to be helpful to resolve delicate, difficult situation between friends and partners, but I don’t want to assume speculations, hypotheticals because no one has approached us about it,” he said when asked how the US will accept in case the proposal was brought up.
“If we can be helpful, I’m sure my colleagues in Washington would consider any such request. So we’ll see,” he added.
Diplomatic tension between Manila and Kuwait escalated in April following rescue operations led by the Philippine Embassy of distressed Filipina workers.
Kuwait government slammed the actions as violation of its domestic laws, which eventually led to the serving of two diplomatic protests at the embassy.
After the issue hogged Kuwaiti headlines, Ambassador Renato Villa was declared persona non grata in the Arab state.
At present, four persons hired as van drivers for the rescue operations have been detained while three diplomats involved in the assistance are facing arrest warrants. (Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA)
