Canadian envoy vows partnership with city

THE visiting Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines vowed Friday to work closely with the City Government in the implementation of various programs and projects in the future.

Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines Christopher Thomley, who paid a courtesy call on Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, said he was surprised with the way the mayor handled the city, adding that it appears that the city doesn't even need the help of other countries.

Thomley also asked the mayor about the problem areas in Davao City, which the mayor answered without inhibitions.

The city mayor told the ambassador that among the problem areas in the city are the city's drainage system and the informal settlers, among others.

"We hope that we can work with you in those areas," Thomley said adding that he is confident that with the city's government style, it can overcome these problems.

Thomley also said the Canadian government is open to the possibility of partnership with other cities and countries across the world.

The nearly 15-minute informal talk between the two focused on what both parties can do that will be beneficial to the city and to Canada as well.

Thomley said the Canadian government is also looking for partners that can produce products that are not abundant in Canada like pineapple and bananas.