President Rodrigo R. Duterte has pushed for a tougher fight against terrorism while continuously responding to the health crisis brought about by COVID-19 as he participated in the 2020 Aqaba Process Virtual Meeting Wednesday.
The 2020 Aqaba Process Virtual Meeting is an initiative of the King of Jordan to enhance the cooperation of world leaders.
According to President Duterte, security threats are still present amidst the crisis. “Excellencies, even as we are navigating ourselves out of this pandemic, the Philippines continues to confront security threats. Indeed, COVID-19 has not quarantined terrorists. Now, more than ever, our resolve is stronger: We will not let up in our fight against terrorism. And we will not allow COVID-19 to bring our people to their knees.”
The Philippine Chief Executive has also pointed out that religion must not be interwoven with terrorism and that the focus must be on the cooperation of the different countries.
“The path before us is clear: We will enhance cooperation with ASEAN, the United Nations and other international partners like Jordan. I take this opportunity to express my sincerest gratitude to His Majesty for the generous assistance that will help us enhance our Air Force’s capacity to combat security threats, including terrorism.”
Meanwhile, President Duterte has encouraged everyone to collaborate in the revival of the economy and trade which have been gravely affected by the pandemic.
“We will work towards more regulatory coherence to promote ASEAN as an investment and trade hub. More than 80% of global trade is carried out by the shipping industry. With almost every other vessel plying the world’s oceans and seas manned by Filipino seafarers, the Philippines plays a key role. My Government worked with the International Maritime Organization on the issuance of a “Green Lanes” circular.” – Report from Mela Lesmoras
