WASHINGTON – Philippine-US relations have vastly improved since the 2010 election of President Benigno Aquino III and he should be invited to make an official visit to Washington in September before he goes to Beijing, the Center for Strategic and International Studies said.
“Clearly, President Obama is more than busy coping with matters that impact the health and future of the US economy, but a working visit can be executed with precision,” said Ernie Bower, a senior adviser and director of the Southeast Asia Program at the Washington-based think tank.
A visit would send a timely and effective message that America supports its friends and allies not only tactically, but politically, Bower said.
He said timing was important and a Washington visit for Aquino should be prioritized.
“If the United States wants to truly be a Pacific power, diplomatic and strategic thrusts must be supported by the White House,” he added.