Philippines, China sign memo of understanding on cooperation

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding on strengthening cooperation.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is in Manila for an official visit upon the invitation of Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano.

"This will reinforce the foundation of the relations between our foreign ministries through exchanges and collaborative activities," Cayetano said in a press conference after a bilateral meeting with China.

The Philippines' top diplomat added that the friendship between Beijing and Manila, under the leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Rodrigo Duterte, is a "friendship worth fostering."

SFA Cayetano's statement after bilateral meeting with Chinese FM Wang Yi pic.twitter.com/0uBCPILkRZ

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During their meeting, Cayetano reiterated Duterte's invitation for Xi to go on a state visit to the Philippines at the appropriate time.

The Philippine government is also preparing for the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to the country in November.

"Taking to heart the Philippine Constitution and President Duterte’s independent foreign policy, we seek to strengthen ties and cooperation with all countries in order to bring tangible benefits to all Filipinos and to the people of our partner countries," Cayetano said.

Cayetano and Wang discussed tourism, trade, finance, cooperation against illegal drugs, cooperation in sports, arts, culture, science and technology and other areas during their meeting.

"The Philippines’ economic and socio-political linkage with China will not only bring investments and tourists but will also create a sound environment where we stand hand-in-hand with China and with all of our neighbors," the DFA secretary said.

Wang: Philippines back on 'right track'

Cayetano also invited Wang to return to the Philippines in August to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Ministerial Meetings in Manila.

The DFA secretary did not mention the South China Sea dispute in his speech but his Chinese counterpart said that the Philippines has returned in the "right track" of addressing the issue for the past year.

Wang vowed that China will be a "good neighbor" and a "good brother" to the Philippines as relations improve.

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