Chinese envoy thanks Duterte for strengthening Philippine-China ties

Chinese ambassador Huang Xilian on Friday thanked President Rodrigo Duterte for his “great contributions” to the strengthening of ties between the Philippines and China under his administration.

On Facebook, Huang wished Duterte success as he hoped the outgoing President would continue supporting the two countries’ relations even after he steps down from his office on June 30.

“I extended my gratitude to President Duterte for his great contributions to the development of the China-Philippines relationship in the past six years,” said Huang. “I also showed my sincere respect to him for adhering to an independent foreign policy.

“I wish him every success and expect his continuous support to China-Philippines friendship.”

Huang joined other ambassadors during the Wednesday-May 25 meeting with Duterte.

Under the Duterte Administration, the two countries maintained cordial ties despite China’s incursions in the West Philippine Sea.

The administration also partnered with the Chinese government for the development of several infrastructure projects in the country and had received pandemic aid such as coronavirus vaccines. — DVM, GMA News