Philippine President Duterte Vows Closer Relations with China

“The Philippines attaches great importance to China's status and influence in the world， and is willing to build stronger relations with China，\" Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said in Manila in his meeting with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on July 25.

Duterte said the Philippines appreciates the support China extends to his country and the role China plays in his country's nation building， especially China's support in combating terrorism. He expressed his satisfaction with the development of bilateral ties between the two countries， saying the Philippines is willing to deepen cooperation with China in all sectors so as to benefit the two countries and their peoples.

Wang reiterated that China unswervingly supports the Philippines’ independent foreign policy. He recalled that bilateral relations between China and the Philippines have improved greatly under the guidance of the leaders of the two countries， saying improved relations have brought tangible benefits to the two peoples.

\"Facts speak loudest. For neighbors， dialogue is better than confrontation， and cooperation is better than friction. History will show that we have made the right choice，\" Wang said.