By Azer Parrocha/Philippine News Agency
MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday said he sees the establishment of more “high-quality” and “good-impact” projects between the Philippines and China.
Duterte made this remark before he sat down with Chinese President Xi Jinping for a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 2nd Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing, China.
“The sooner they are completed, the sooner people on the ground will feel the benefits of Philippine-China relations,” Duterte said in his speech.
He also expressed hope that the two countries work together to explore new areas of cooperation and partnership.
“We look forward to a productive discussion on matters of mutual interest and concern,” Duterte said.
Duterte is among the 35 leaders and heads of international organizations participating in the 2nd Belt and Road Forum.
Duterte, thanked the Chinese leader for his personal invitation to the forum, describing it as a chance to further strengthen ties.
“The forum provides another opportunity to renew and reaffirm our valued relations based on mutual trust, respect, and friendship and must continue to grow strength and meaning in the coming years,” Duterte said.
He also described Xi’s visit to the Philippines in November last year as “a watershed moment in the Philippine-China ties”.
Duterte, meanwhile, greeted China in its 70th founding anniversary and lauded its economic accomplishments that made China the second largest economy in the world.
“The Philippines congratulates China on its economic achievements,” Duterte said.
“The decision to elevate bilateral ties to a comprehensive, strategic cooperation affirms the Philippines and China’s strong desire to further deepen and broaden this engagement,” he added.
Duterte’s trip to China is his fourth since assuming the presidency in 2016. He also attended the 1st Belt and Road Forum in May 2017.
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