China, Philippines vow to deepen collaboration and promote exchanges

China and the Philippines agreed on Tuesday to upgrade bilateral ties to the level of 'comprehensive strategic cooperation' and advance the Belt and Road development.

The decision was made during a meeting between visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Philippine counterpart Rodrigo Duterte.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Philippine counterpart Rodrigo Duterte meet the press after a meeting in Manila on Tuesday, November 20, 2018. [Photo: gov.cn]

The Chinese President arrived in Manila on Tuesday for his first state visit to the Philippines.

During his meeting with Duterte, Xi Jinping said the upgrade of bilateral ties meets the development needs of both countries, and calls on both sides to promote exchanges at all levels and consolidate mutual trust.

He also acknowledged another significant concern the two sides share.

"China and the Philippines have a lot of common interest in the South China Sea, we will continue to manage contentious issues and promote maritime cooperation through friendly consultation and we will work alongside other ASEAN countries towards the conclusion of the Code of Conduct consultation based on consensus within three years, and contribute our efforts for peace, stability and welfare in this region," said Xi. 

The Chinese president also urged synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and the Philippines' development plans, calling on the two sides to boost collaboration in infrastructure, telecommunications, and agriculture.

Xi Jinping said China supports the Philippines in choosing its own development path and fighting against drugs and terrorism.

Rodrigo Duterte said the Philippines is ready to work with China to upgrade bilateral ties, facilitate collaboration in sectors including trade, infrastructure, energy and agriculture, as well as promote relations between ASEAN and China.

"With mutual respect, sincerity and adherence to sovereign equality, I will continue to work closely with President Xi to deepen the relationship between our great countries so we may together secure a peaceful and prosperous future for both our peoples, and for the entire region," said Duterte.

The Philippine president also agreed countries in the region should work together to safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea.

Xi Jinping's visit to the Philippines is the first by a Chinese head of state in 13 years.

The Philippines is the last stop of president Xi's three-country Asia-Pacific tour, after his visits to Papua New Guinea, where he attended the 26th APEC Meeting, and Brunei.