Philippine leader calls Trump a fellow curser

THE PHILIPPINES’ foulmouthed president has welcomed Donald Trump’s election victory, calling him a fellow curser.

Rodrigo Duterte, during a visit to Malaysia yesterday, said, “Long live Mr. Trump! We both curse at the slightest reason. We are alike.”

Duterte, who has had a difficult relationship with the United States, has told President Barack Obama in the past to “go to hell.” He has criticised US officials for expressing concern about his brutal crackdown on illegal drug sellers and users.

Philippine officials said Wednesday that Duterte has decided to reduce the number of joint military exercises with the US.

MACEDONIAN SUPPORT

Meanwhile, Macedonia’s president has congratulated Trump on his election, saying the small Balkan country counts on US help in joining NATO and the 28-nation European Union.

President Gjorge Ivanov said in a letter yesterday that US support is of “vital importance” for Macedonian and other Balkan countries to join the international organisations.

Macedonia’s bid for EU accession has been frozen pending calls from Brussels for police and judiciary reforms, and for greater press freedom. Its hopes of becoming a NATO member have been blocked by neighbouring Greece, due to a festering dispute over Macedonia’s name.