PH-China relations ‘turned around’ during Duterte’s term: Xi

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday said the relationship between China and the Philippines has “turned around” since Philippine President Rodrigo R. Duterte assumed office in 2016.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Philippine counterpart Rodrigo Duterte head for the main building of the presidential palace after a welcome ceremony in Manila, the Philippines, Nov. 20, 2018. [Photo: Xinhua/Ju Peng]

Xi made this remark in his toast during the state banquet in his honor which was hosted by President Duterte at the Rizal Hall of Malacañang.

“After President Duterte took office, our two sides have worked together to remove many obstacles. Our relationship has been turned around and put on the right trajectory,” Xi said in his speech.

Xi compared Duterte to national hero Jose Rizal for making the “ultimate sacrifice” for his country and pushing for an "independent Philippines". Before meeting Duterte, Xi laid a floral wreath at the Rizal Monument.

“I commend the President for taking on Jose Rizal’s mantle and for his commitment to an independent Philippines,” he added.

The Chinese President also welcomed the agreements signed between the two countries which elevated their relationship to “one of comprehensive strategic cooperation.”

“This decision, which will mark a new milestone in our relations, speaks to our shared determination to be good friends and good neighbors. We are truly pleased with this decision,” Xi said.

Xi, meanwhile, proposed a toast to the prosperity and well-being of Philippines, to the lasting friendship between Philippines and China, and to the health of Duterte and his partner, Honeylet Avanceña.

Duterte, for his part, welcomed how the two countries were able to hurdle “challenges” by resuming bilateral dialogue and deepening relations through positive engagement.

“President Xi and I are committed to forge a new legacy of friendship and cooperation as we work together in further consolidating ties with our both nations,” Duterte said.

“President Xi’s visit to Manila, the first by a Chinese President in more than a decade, is a testament to our strong desire to write a new chapter in the history of Philippines-China relations,” he added.

Duterte also said he was optimistic that Philippines and China will sustain the momentum in moving their relationship even further.

“I am hopeful that through our cooperation, opportunities for greater collaboration will further promote the prosperity and success of our nations and contribute to lasting peace and stability in the region,” Duterte said.

In his toast, Duterte wished Xi good health and continued success, stronger friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and China, and hope that succeeding generations will reap as a result of the improved relations between the two countries.