Xi says he was ‘truly pleased’ with his 2-day state visit to PH

Chinese President Xi Jinping said he was satisfied with his two-day state visit in the country as both countries strengthened its ties despite the ongoing dispute over the South China Sea.

Xi, who arrived in the country on Tuesday wrote to President Rodrigo Duterte and said he was “truly pleased” with the outcome of his meetings with the Chief Executive, House Speaker Gloria Arroyo, and Senate President Vicente Sotto III during his state visit.

READ: Xi Jinping arrives in PH for two-day state visit

“Upon the conclusion of my successful state visit to the Republic of the Philippines, I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to you, Mr. President, and the Government and people of the Philippines for your friendship and warm hospitality,” Xi said in his letter to the President which was released by the Chinese Embassy.

“During the visit, I was once again deeply touched by your sincerity and determination to grow our bilateral relations and by the friendly sentiment of the Philippine people toward the Chinese people,” he added.

According to the Chinese leader, he was “deeply touched” by the sincerity and determination of the President to strengthen bilateral relations between the Philippines and China.

Xi added that he was also “deeply impressed” by the President’s insights on China-Philippines relationship and on international affairs, proving “once again that China and the Philippines are partners in a common journey toward peace and development.”

“I set great store by China-Philippines relations and value my personal friendship with you, Mr. President,” Xi said.

“I will work with you to strengthen political mutual trust and deepen practical cooperation in all fields so that the tree of China-Philippines friendship will grow more luxuriant and bear more fruits,” Xi added.

During Xi’s two-day visit, the Philippines and China signed a memorandum of understanding for oil and gas development cooperation.

Also signed during the meeting were 28 other deals that range from trade to education. /muf

READ: PH, China sign MOU on oil and gas development, 28 other deals