PR
MANILA – Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanar said that the relationship between the Philippines and China is “better than ever,” and that the Philippines is “experiencing good economic trading strides” with China as he congratulated China for its 70th founding anniversary.
“China is like celebrating a grandfather’s birthday. And you know what a grandfather is — a grandfather means wisdom. And it has grown so much in its economy and it has grown so much in its culture and the values that it shares not only inside China, but the other neighboring countries and places where this One Belt and One Road Initiative passes through. So much wisdom, so much generosity, congratulations to the People’s Republic of China,” the Secretary said.
“We are also experiencing growth in tourism from China, we are exporting more of our agricultural products to China, we are seeing many businesses and investors come from China. Our government, and the government of the People’s Republic of China are working together,” he added.
Meanwhile, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Eduardo Malaya said the Philippines and China will overcome any challenge ahead due to the close relations and mutual trust the two countries have cultivated in recent years.
Speaking on behalf of Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. during the 70th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) on Thursday night, Malaya highlighted the two countries’ “special bonds and partnerships.”
“As with any journey, we might on occasion encounter challenges but the road before us is broad. And as we continue moving forward in good faith, mutual respect, and cooperation between two friends, no obstacle should be insurmountable,” Malaya said.
He also congratulated China for its 70th founding anniversary.
“I have the honor of conveying the most profound congratulations and best wishes to the People’s Republic of China as it marks this momentous, and truly auspicious occasion of its 70th year founding anniversary,” Malaya said.
The DFA official also lauded China’s strong economic growth from the past seven decades.
“These past seven decades witnessed perhaps the most remarkable story of growth, development and poverty alleviation the world has yet seen. The revitalization of the Chinese nation to a position of global prominence,” Malaya said.
Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua, meanwhile, acknowledged the maritime dispute between the countries and proclaimed that it does not define the country’s bilateral relations.
“It is our belief that South China Sea issue is not the sum total of China-Philippine relations, nor disputes, the sum total of South China Sea issues,” Zhao said.
