Duterte: Complex bilateral relations not impeding PH, China ties
Hainan, China— President Rodrigo Duterte said complex bilateral relations were not a hindrance to building significant relationships, as he emphasized the close ties between the Philippines and China.
“As sovereign equals, the Philippines and China are partners in the building of the much needed infrastructure which are the building blocks and bridges for greater understanding between our two peoples,” the President said in his address to the plenary of the Boao Forum for Asia.
The Philippines and China are also working to boost their respective economies, he said.
“We are working together on strengthening economic complementarities,” he added.
The President also said the Philippines and China stand together in the war on criminality and the illegal drug trade. They are also shoulder to shoulder in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
“Make no mistake. There can be no progress without stability in Asia’s lands and waters,” he said.
Before departing for the Boao forum, the President also heaped praises on China, saying he needs the country to back his administration’s projects and that he loves President Xi Jinping. /muf
