PH, China sign deals on trade, drugs
BEIJING – Amid improving bilateral relations, the Philippines and China have forged two agreements on promoting investment cooperation and drug rehabilitation efforts.
The two formal accords were signed after President Duterte met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People here, where they agreed to further enhance the bilateral relations.
The agreements signed are:
1. Exchange of Letters on Production Capacity and Investment Cooperation between the Philippines and China.
Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said the document proposes a project list that will serve as the focus of cooperation between the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) and the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC). Socioeconomic planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia and NDRC chairman He Lifeng were signatories of the document on behalf of their respective countries.
2. Handover Certificate GrantAid for the Dangerous Drugs Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers Project between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Government of the People's Republic of China.
Panelo said the drug treatment facilities, funded by China
through grant, are located in Sarangani and Agusan del Norte. Ambassador Jose Santiago Sta. Romana signed the document on the country's behalf while Minister of Commerce Zhong Shan signed for China.
At the start of the bilateral meeting, President Duterte called for stronger relations between the Philippines and China, saying the bilateral ties were based on mutual trust, respect, and friendship.
President Xi lauded the robust relations between the Philippines and China, saying he considers President Duterte a genuine friend and trusted partner.
The Philippine leader is in Beijing for the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation on April 25 to 27 upon the invitation of Xi.
“We're happy that China and Philippine relations are getting better and better,” Xi said in Chinese at the opening of the bilateral meeting with Duterte and his Cabinet members, citing the cooperative ties between the two countries remain “strong.”
“I treat Mr. President a good friend, a genuine friend, and trustful partner,” he said about Duterte.
Duterte also recognized that the two nations must explore new areas of cooperation and partnership.
“The forum provides another opportunity to renew and reaffirm our valued relations based on mutual trust, respect, and friendship and must continue to grow strength and meaning in the coming years,” he said.
“The Philippines and China must continue to work together to explore new areas of cooperation and partnership. We look forward to a productive discussion on matters of mutual interest and concern,” he added.
Duterte also congratulated China on its 70th founding anniversary, citing its economic achievements.
“We keep listening to His Excellency’s talks and progress… achieved in further strengthening bilateral relations in the recent development in our region,” he added.
He recalled that Xi's visit to Manila last year was a watershed moment in the Philippine-China ties.
“The decision to elevate bilateral ties to a comprehensive, strategic cooperation affirms the Philippines and China’s strong desire to further deepen and broaden this engagement,” he said.
Xi, on the other hand, recognized the Philippine as an important partner in the Belt and Road initiative, that focuses on regional economic cooperation and connectivity.
He also extended China’s condolences to the earthquake victims back in the Philippines.
Meanwhile, Duterte said the Belt and Road Forum provides an opportunity “to renew and reaffirm our valued relations based on mutual trust, respect and friendship.”
He agreed that the PhilippineChina relations must continue to grow in strength and meaning in coming years.
“We look forward to a productive discussion on matters on mutual interest and concern,” he told Xi.
He also called for the swift implementation of the bilateral agreements forged during Xi's visit to Manila last year. He said he looks forward to “high quality and good impact projects.”
“The sooner they are completed, the sooner people on the ground will feel the benefit for Philippine-China relations,” he said.
After the meeting with Xi, the President is scheduled to hold a separate bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang Thursday afternoon. A dinner will be hosted for the President and his delegation afterwards.