President Xi's visit to promote ties to new level: Duterte

Chinese President Xi Jinping will pay a state visit to the Philippines at the invitation of President Rodrigo Duterte. It is the first state visit by a Chinese head of state in thirteen years.

Calling the Philippines China's friend, President Duterte said the Philippines-China relations have improved a lot since he took office, with many cooperative agreements signed and the Philippines benefiting much from cooperation with China in multiple fields.

Duterte also believes President Xi Jinping's visit this time will promote bilateral relations to a new level.

President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte receives an interview with Chinese media in Manila.[Photo: China Plus]

"In fact, the President's visit to my country during my term is enough a pride to say we are friends of China. The coming visit of President Xi would speed something, the full blossom of flowers. It is highest that the two nations can ever hope for the relations."

Duterte went on to say that the bilateral relations are good in many aspects, such as Philippines' expanded exports to China, and the sharp increase of Chinese tourists to the Philippines.

He especially emphasized China's continued support for his country with no demands made or strings attached.

Hailing China's investments in the Philippines, the President expressed willingness to promote transactions and exchange in Peso and Renminbi and the implementation of consensuses reached concerning the Belt and Road.

As for the directions in which the bilateral relations should be headed, the President put forward the following suggestions.

President Rodrigo Duterte (right) is interviewed by Chinese media in Manila, Philippines. [Photo: China Plus]

"One is that we will improve our relationship in trade and commerce. Second is close relationship in defense. Third is cooperation to improve the conditions of our international seas, to eliminate the piracy."

As a president who has visited China multiple times, he said he was deeply impressed by China's fruitful achievements made in the forty years of Reform and Opening Up, and the Chinese people's diligence.

At the same time, the President also admitted that his country still lags behind in many areas, hoping progress will be made in economy and people's livelihood by deepening cooperation with China within the Belt and Road framework.

He also indicated his interest in living in China after retirement.

"(I am) More than Happy (about the bilateral relations). I even intend to live in a house there somewhere if the government allows me to buy some land. I'd like to stay there just like my grandfather for retirement purposes even I grow old."