Russia keen on boosting trade and investment ties with PH

DA NANG, Vietnam – Russia is interested in enhancing trade and investment relations with the Philippines in the areas of energy, aviation, shipping, among others.

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed this sentiment on economic cooperation during his bilateral meeting with President Duterte on the sidelines of a regional summit here, according to Presidential spokesman Harry Roque Jr. said

“The Russians would like to

trade with the Philippines. They have corporations that would like to do business in the field of energy. He also says that their company that is promoting nuclear energy would like to have business dealings with the Philippines,” Roque said in a media interview.

“They have other companies in transportation, including subway… He made particular mention of the interest to build a light metro rail for Baguio and La Trinidad,” he added.

He said Russian companies are also “very interested” in venturing into civil aviation, particularly selling aircraft and helicopters, in the Philippines. It also intends to sell 10 high-speed boats and other vessels to the country.

After the Philippines welcomed more Russian vessels in its waters, Roque said Russia also wants to establish a ship repair facility in the country to serve its ships.

“They appreciate the fact that Russia has been able to make calls on our ports and they will exhibit reciprocity by allowing Philippine ships to call on Russian ports,” he said.

Russia is likewise keen on importing fish, fruit, and other seafood from the Philippines while exporting grain and meat back home, Roque added.

Roque noted that the two countries are expected to sign agreements related to education, transport, and energy when Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev attends a regional forum in Manila next week.

Apart from economic ties, Roque said Russia also agreed to further improve bilateral cooperation on tourism, education, and culture.

Military cooperation Russia is ready to intensify military cooperation with the Philippines, President Vladimir Putin told President Duterte amid the lingering common threat of terrorism.

Putin met with the Philippine leader on the sidelines of a regional summit here, promising not only to enhance military ties but also revitalize economic relations with the Philippines.

The two leaders held bilateral talks on the sidelines of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, almost six months since their last meeting in Moscow. Duterte’s visit was cut short then due to the terror siege in Marawi City last May.

“I would like to say that terrorism is one of our common problem and common challenge and following our agreement, we are ready to keep developing our relations, including in the military area and the tactical and military area,” Putin said in his opening remarks.

Putin said it was “great pleader” to meet Duterte again as he recalled that the Philippine leader was forced to cut short his visit to Russia due to terror attack in his country. He also commended the Philippine leader for addressing the problem in Marawi City.

“Now, I do remember your final words. You told me while you were leaving Russia, you told me that you had to go back and install law and order to attack terrorists. That’s why I’d like to say that you managed to do just that,” he said.

President Duterte, for his part, thanked Russia for its assistance in addressing the terror siege staged by an Islamic State-inspired group in Marawi City.

Duterte informed Putin though that Marawi remains a “very dangerous city” amid continued “pockets of resistance” in the government’s mopping up operation.

“I would like to convey to you the gratitude of the Filipino people for your timely assistance, especially the trucks and the arms that you sent because we have to replenish – the supplies were getting low,” he said.

Duterte noted that weapons from Russia were “very accurate” and prothe soldiers from sniper fire during the Marawi battle.

“In a way, you helped us turn the tide and to shorten the war there because of your assistance. So again, I thank you very much, the Russian people, and you, Mr. President. We will remember you for all time,” he said.