Iranian ambassador Alireza Tootoonchian has commended the Manila city government’s continuous effort to help curb the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic in the country.
Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso met with Tootoonchian at the Manila City Hall on Tuesday (May 25).
“In terms of the rules during quarantine, you are very strict and it is very helpful. Many people obey and it is very good. Many people follow the instructions,” the Iranian envoy said.
“This is the advantage that your city, your country has. Of course, there are people who do not follow rules. But, in general, in Manila and in the Philippines, there are many people following the rules and regulations,” Tootoonchian added.
According to Domagoso, the city is a "densely populated metropolis."
"We are really trying our best to catch up with the challenges. It is a very unique situation,” he added.
Tootoonchian disclosed to Domagoso the application of nanotechnology to ensure clean water in the nation’s capital.
He said Manila and Iran can create more areas of cooperation such as the halal industry and agriculture, on top of the possible application of nanotechnology in water purification and wastewater treatment.
Domagoso said, “That's very timely,” and highlighted the need for technology to ensure clean water in line with the city's ongoing and future infrastructure projects, such as the Bagong Ospital ng Maynila and the Bagong Manila Zoo.
The local chief executive also said the nanotechnology can be used for other infrastructure projects in the city, such as the proposed 10-story school buildings of the Dr. Alejandro Albert Elementary School, Rosauro Almario Elementary School, and Manila Science High School.
Domagoso also shared with Tootoonchian the construction of the Manila Muslim Cemetery and Cultural Hall which is set to be completed soon.
"It is a testament to the commitment to the City Government that everyone will be included. We want our Muslim brothers and sisters to feel that they belong to the city," Domagoso said.
Domagoso added that the structure's designs were inspired from places in Iran which he saw from pictures and movies.
Tootoonchia also invited Domagoso to visit Tehran, the capital of Iran: “I invite you to pay a visit. The best time is in spring, which starts in March.”
“Perhaps when the COVID-19 pandemic has ended, I could go there,” Domagoso said.