President Donald J. Trump speaks at The Salute To Our Armed Services Inaugural Ball Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, in Washington. AP PHOTO
Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella on Saturday said that the Philippines welcomes the foreign policy of United States President Donald Trump, as it “promises a more placid and mutually beneficial relationship especially with long-standing allies like us.”
Abella said in a statement that the country finds resonance with America’s intention to “seek friendship and goodwill and reinforce existing alliances, without imposing America’s way of life on others,” quoting a part from Trump’s inaugural speech.
READ: Inaugural address of US President Donald J. Trump
“Our diplomatic ties need to reflect our long-standing relationship but under terms and conditions that protect our people’s interests,” Abella said.
“While there is a promise of spring US-ward, as an independent and sovereign nation we will expand our collaboration with other friends and partners in the international community, in accordance with the principles of international law,” he added.
However, hours after Trump’s inauguration, the newly-published “America First Foreign Policy” says “The Trump Administration is committed to a foreign policy focused on American interests and American national security,” affirming Trump’s earlier pronouncements of “America First.”
READ: Trump takes charge, vowing ‘America first’ policies
Abella said that the Palace respects this pronouncement, as it is “in like manner [that the] national interest is the primary consideration that guides President Rodrigo Duterte.”
He also pointed out that the government’s priority remains to be the common good of the Filipino people and the national interest.
The Palace added it recognizes the “indispensable need” to strengthen relations with allied nations, because prosperity and national well-being rely on these harmonious partnerships as our nation progress. IDL