Duterte lauds Abe win

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte (C) shakes hands with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (R) at the end of their signing ceremony and joint remarks announcement at Abe’s official residence in Tokyo on October 30, 2017.
Duterte arrived here early October 30 for a two-day visit. AFP

Tokyo – President Rodrigo Duterte personally congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on his victory at the recently-concluded snap elections, as the two leaders affirmed their growing friendship that goes “beyond official lines.”

Mr. Duterte hailed Abe for his “fresh and convincing mandate from your people” during their summit talks at the Prime Minister’s official residence.

“Your victory demonstrates the continued trust of your people in your leadership,” he said.

Mr. Duterte and Abe met in Tokyo on Monday, the first day of the President’s two-day official visit to Japan.

Abe hosted dinner for Mr. Duterte on Monday night.   /kga