THE Philippines sealed six cooperation agreements with China during President Rodrigo Duterte's fifth visit, further boosting ties between Manila and Beijing.
In his opening statement during the signing ceremony Thursday, August 29, Duterte thanked China for its "excellent" arrangements with the Philippines and reassured Chinese President Xi Jinping that he valued the "friendship" between the two nations.
"Today, let us reaffirm the value of our relationship -- both personal and official -- as well as the trust, respect and pursuit of mutual benefit that we have been building over the last three years," Duterte said.
"With channels for dialogue fully opened, agreements signed and projects underway, there is a clear path of partnership and convergence," he added.
Duterte acknowledged that there have been "challenges" encountered by the two states.
"To be sure, there have been challenges. Yet we are living up to our commitment to define our ties as a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperation," he said.
"Today, we can add fresh impetus - indeed a stronger momentum - to work together. That is, to determine steps needed along a common road that lead to the goal of a strong and special relationship that is mutually respectful, collectively beneficial and decidedly reciprocal," he added.
Xi, meantime, said he was happy to see Duterte, whom he considers as an "old friend."
The Chinese leader added that it was a pleasure working with Duterte to further bolster ties between Manila and Beijing.
Duterte and Xi witnessed the signing of the six deals after their bilateral meeting.
The bilateral agreements focused on improving education, science and technology, and economic and social development.
The agreements are: