MANILA—Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano on Saturday said that he sees stronger relations between the Philippines and the US following the pronouncement of newly sworn-in Pres. Donald Trump to seek friendship with other nations while pursuing its national interests first.
“We welcome the pronouncement of newly inaugurated United States President Donald Trump to seek friendship with other nations while respecting each country’s own national interests,” Cayetano said in a statement.
Cayetano likened Trump to Philippine Pres. Rodrigo Duterte who continues to push for having an independent foreign policy that benefits their country.
“We can see how, much like President Rodrigo Duterte, President Trump is driven by a strong fervor of patriotism and nationalism. They both focus on having an independent foreign policy that benefits their respective people and nations,” the senator said.
“We look forward to a stronger relationship with the US, a kind that will be based on mutual trust and respect,” he added.
He explained that a truly independent foreign policy allows the Philippines to “craft its own destiny” with its national interest which will in turn improve the lives of its citizens.
The senator meanwhile expressed hope that all US agencies will back efforts to pursue a policy of “mutual respect, cooperation, and non-interference.”
He also offered prayers for the success of the US under the Trump presidency.
Trump was sworn in as the 45th US President on Friday (Jan 20) in Washington, DC. In his inauguration speech, he vowed to put “America first.”