DFA chief after a two-day trip to Moscow: PH-Russia relations fortified

BILATERAL MEETING. Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano in Moscow for a two-day official visit aimed at strengthening Manila’s relations with the Russian Federation. (Photo by DFA)

Fresh from his trip to Moscow, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano reported on Wednesday of intensified Philippine relationship with Russia.

Cayetano visited Moscow from May 14-15 and held bilateral talks with Foreign Minister and Russian diplomat Sergey Lavrov.

“We are undertaking a working visit to Russia as part of our efforts to build on stronger and mutually beneficial ties with the Russian people,” Cayetano said in a statement.

“The visit is in line with President Duterte’s commitment towards an independent foreign policy that is centered on the needs and aspirations of the Filipino,” he added.

Cayetano also spoke before diplomats and the academe at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations, and also met with the Filipino community during the short visit.

Cayetano then noted the heightened defense cooperation between the Philippines and Russia, following the signing of the Agreement on Defense Cooperation and the Agreement on Military-technical Cooperation last year.

“Our revitalized ties have translated into pragmatic cooperation in the politico-security, economic and scientific, and socio-cultural spheres,” he said. Faye Orellana, INQUIRER.net                 /kga