Saudi Arabia, Philippines reaffirm commitment to combat extremism, terrorism

MANILA: Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday welcomed Saudi Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif at the presidential palace.

Duterte’s spokesman Harry Roque described the meeting as “very warm and cordial,” with the president and minister reiterating both countries’ commitment to fighting terrorism.

The prince was on a three-day official visit to Manila. He and Duterte discussed strengthening bilateral ties and issues of mutual importance, particularly law enforcement, peace, security, and promoting the welfare of Filipino migrant workers.

Duterte thanked him for the visit, and the prince conveyed King Salman’s personal and warm wishes as he reaffirmed the importance of the Philippines to Saudi Arabia.

The minister also conveyed the king’s “deep respect” for Duterte’s “strong and decisive action that led to the liberation of Marawi (city) from extremists and terrorists.”

Duterte stressed the need to expand trade and investment cooperation, and to promote the rights, safety and well-being of Filipinos.

He hosted a luncheon for Prince Abdulaziz in President’s Hall. The minister held separate talks with some of Duterte’s Cabinet members.

On Sunday, the prince received Mindanao Development Authority Chairman Datu Abul Khayr Alonto at the Shangri-La at the Fort.

They discussed enhancing ties between the two countries, and the Saudi commitment to peace and development in Mindanao.

Alonto thanked the prince for his continuing support, especially to the island’s Muslim population.

The prince also met with Eduardo Ano, interior and local government officer in charge, with whom he discussed cooperation between the two countries’ interior ministries.

The prince also met with Labor Minister Silvestre Bello III and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon.

In April 2017, Duterte paid a three-day visit to Saudi Arabia as part of his three-nation tour of the Middle East.