Japanese businessmen to invest in manufacturing, agriculture sectors — Duterte

Among the deals signed during his visit to Japan are investments in manufacturing and agriculture sectors, President Rodrigo Duterte said late Thursday.

"Economic cooperation remains a linchpin between our dynamic relations. As I sought greater partnership to create an enabling government for both our business to thrive, I encouraged private businesses in Japan to invest in the Philippines," he said at a press conference when he arrived at the Davao City International Airport from an official visit to Japan.

"Among the deals signed between the businesses were the investments in manufacturing and agriculture that will generate considerable number of jobs. Japan is well placed to remain as the Philippine's top trading partner," he added.

Duterte noted Japan is the Philippines' number one partner when it comes to official development assistance (ODA), "to support inclusive growth in the country."

"Under JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency), high impact projects benefitting our urban and rural areas are undertaken," he said.

Japan was also asked to support Duterte's objective of pursuing peace and development in Mindanao. —KG/VDS, GMA News