Turning a New Page: President Xi pays a state visit to the Philippines as ties warm

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02:29

Chinese President Xi Jinping is in the Philippine capital Manila for his first state visit to the country. Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte held a welcome ceremony for Xi at the presidential palace. The visit comes as the two nations turn the page to a new chapter in their historic relationship. CGTN's Barnaby Lo has more.

Underscoring the long history of friendship between China and the Philippines, Chinese President Xi Jinping began his state visit in Manila. Xi's visit on Tuesday, the first by a Chinese head of state to the Philippines since 2005, marks a new chapter of renewed friendship.

XI JINPING CHINESE PRESIDENT "The president and I both agreed to elevate our relationship into one of comprehensive, strategic cooperation. This vision charts a clear course for China-Phillippines relations and sends a strong message to the world that our two countries are partners in seeking common development."

Since Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte took office, focus has been on areas of cooperation between China and the Philippines, rather than on areas of conflict like the territorial dispute in the South China Sea. Discussions over the controversial matter were on the table, but the spotlight was on China's multi-billion dollar investment and aid pledges.

RODRIGO DUTERTE PHILIPPINE PRESIDENT "President Xi's visit gives us new impetus to our mutual efforts to enhance collaboration in ensuring the well-being of our peoples and contributing to peace and stability in the region."

Better ties have already boosted business both ways, with trade surpassing 50 billion dollars last year. The hope now is that Xi's visit can fast track China-funded infrastructure projects.

BARNABY LO MANILA "This isn't the first time Chinese President Xi Jinping is visiting the Philippines, but it's his first state visit. More importantly, it's under amicable circumstances. The visit isn't going to resolve the South China Sea issue, but without question, it's going to elevate diplomatic and business ties. Barnaby Lo, CGTN, Manila."