UNITED States Ambassador-designate to the Philippines Sung Kim on Monday expressed optimism that the ties between the Trump and Duterte administrations will be bolstered.
Kim, who arrived in Manila last December 2, said he is confident that the United States and the Philippines will continue to have a “deep bond” because of the “tremendous will, extraordinary spirit, warmth and strength” in their relationship.
“Over the weeks, months and years ahead, I look forward to working closely with the Philippines’ government and Filipino people to expand our relationship and to engage in many areas of mutual interest,” Kim told Palace reporters.
“This important relationship is, of course, based on mutual respect. I am confident that our mutual respect combined with the close ties and shared history and values will ensure stability in our relationship over the long term and the years and decades to come,” he added.
Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said Kim had been able to meet the President at the Malacañang on Monday afternoon.
Abella said the meeting between the two lasted for about one hour.
In his speech, Kim said he had a “lengthy and substantive” discussion with Duterte.
Kim also thanked Duterte and the Filipino people for the "warm" welcome.
“It is an incredible honor for me to be in the Philippines to have this opportunity to contribute to one of America’s most enduring partnerships,” he said.
“In addition to our close friendship and, of course, our strong alliance, we have strong economic ties that are long-standing and extensive and enthusiastic about the potential to grow our two-way economic partnership,” Kim added. (Sunnex)