Relationship turning point rekindles beneficial ties

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines has begun to reap economic gains following President Rodrigo Duterte rekindling the country's ties with China after taking office last June, a Philippine expert has noted.

Beneto Lim, political science professor at Ateneo de Manila University, told Xinhua in an interview that Duterte has given emphasis on rebuilding trust and confidence between the Philippines and China.

"Both sides have decided to set aside the source of conflict and proceed with what is mutually beneficial to both countries," the expert said.

Four months into his presidency, Duterte made a four-day visit to China. After returning from Beijing, Duterte said his visit "signaled a turning point" in diplomatic relations between the two countries.

"We acknowledged the need to address disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law," he said.

During his recent visit to Thailand, Duterte reaffirmed that he believes the South China Sea should be a sea of peace, stability and sustainable development for the sake of the region and its peoples.

Xinhua

(China Daily 05/15/2017 page42)