Duterte: PH, China ‘sovereign equals’

“As sovereign equals, the Philippines and China are partners in the building of much-needed infrastructure. We are bridging bridges of greater understanding between our peoples. We are working together on strengthening economic complementarities,” Duterte said in his speech. (PNA photo)

MANILA — President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Tuesday described the Philippines and China as “sovereign equals,” not just for being partners in building “much-needed” infrastructure, but also bridging greater understanding between their people.

Speaking at the Boao Forum for Asia in Hainan, China, Duterte stressed the need to “cooperate, coordinate, and collaborate” to achieve Asian region’s shared dream of prosperity.

“As sovereign equals, the Philippines and China are partners in the building of much-needed infrastructure. We are bridging bridges of greater understanding between our peoples. We are working together on strengthening economic complementarities,” Duterte said in his speech.

Duterte described the Philippines and China as having stood “shoulder to shoulder” in fighting criminality and terrorism.

“With China, we stand together in the war on criminality and the illegal drug trade. We are shoulder to shoulder in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism. Make no mistake: there can be no progress without stability in Asia’s lands and waters,” Dutete said.

Duterte expressed commitment to work with all nations in the regions to seek both “friendship and cooperation in forging a more prosperous continent and world”.

“The Philippines is ready to work with all nations in the region who seek friendship and cooperation. This is what nations — big or small — should act on collectively when we leave Boao: Cooperate, coordinate and collaborate. So we can achieve our shared dream of prosperity for all,” Duterte said.

The President also took the opportunity to highlight the Philippine government efforts to “nurture” the dream of a comfortable life for Filipinos.

“We want a society with opportunity for all. We want a nation with a hardworking, talented, and law-abiding and advance together and move to the social-economic ladder,” Duterte said.

“We are slowly making the Filipino dream a reality. As we strive to push our economy forward, we encounter challenges but we will not be deterred,” he added.

Duterte also mentioned the Philippine government’s efforts to improve the country’s peace and order situation, end corruption, and strengthen policy framework for businesses to thrive.

“Good governance is the basis for a sound economic policy. The Philippines should do more to increase investments in a country particularly in infrastructure, innovation and interconnectivity,” Duterte said.

He spoke about the infrastructure program “Build, Build, Build” which he said will provide the solid backbone for growth and more jobs for Filipinos.

The BFA gathers over 2,000 participants worldwide to discuss bilateral and multilateral cooperation, global governance, and world economy and trade in building a new consensus and produce new outcome.