China to extend cooperation with the Philippines

Almaty. October 27. Silkroadnews – China will extend cooperation with the Philippines, Xinhua news agency reported.
“Chang Wanquan, Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister, said in his talks with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte that China is willing to broaden and deepen pragmatic cooperation with the Philippines,” the report said.
“China seeks to enhance strategic mutual trust with the Philippines, properly handle differences, and push for sustained and healthy relationships between our two countries, as we are neighbors,” Chang is quoted saying.
In his turn, Duterte noted that the Philippines attaches great importance to the development of relations with China, and expressed gratitude to China for supporting the development of the Philippines, especially in its efforts to combat terrorism in Marawi in the south of the country.
It is reported that the Philippine government forces have just ended their combat operations against terrorists in Marawi, lasted five months, in which about 1200 people were killed, including 961 extremists and 165 soldiers and policemen. The conflict also caused huge economic damage to the economy.
According to the agency, China provided dump trucks, concrete mixers, excavators and bulldozers worth about $3 million to restore Marawi.
In conversation with Chang, Duterte also said the Philippines wants to deepen its friendship and cooperation with China and properly solve the problem of the South China Sea through the dialogue, consultations and friendly cooperation for the benefit of two countries’ people.