Xi, Duterte exchange congratulations on 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties
Updated 19:49, 09-Jun-2020
CGTN

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte exchanged congratulatory messages on Tuesday on the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. 

President Xi said that he is willing to work with his Philippine counterpart to continuously lift their countries' relationship of comprehensive strategic cooperation to new levels. 

"I attach great importance to the development of China-Philippines ties," Xi underlined. 

Both China and the Philippines are at a critical moment for development, Xi stressed in his message, noting that the two countries share broad prospects for cooperation.  

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In his message, Duterte echoed Xi's stance on the deep traditional friendship the two sides have shared.  

It is vital for the Philippines and China to enhance partnership amid the unprecedented security challenges, added Duterte. 

The Philippines has treated China as a close neighbor that shares a traditional friendship and who is an important partner for cooperation, Duterte underscored, looking forward to adding more dimension to the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership with China and deliver greater benefits to both countries and peoples.