Manila, Nov. 18 -- The Philippines and Palestine have established a political consultation mechanism as they agree to forge a "robust and practical cooperation" in a number of areas.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and visiting Palestine Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin signed on Tuesday the memorandum of understanding (MOU) establishing the mechanism.

Lazaro said the deal will allow the two states to identify areas of cooperation and promote common interests.

"The future of Philippines-Palestine relations is bright and promising. I look forward to a stronger and more dynamic cooperation between our two countries, under the shared vision of peace, stability, and prosperity," she said in a joint presser in Pasay Ci...