BEIJING: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi attributed the renewed relationship between the Philippines and China to President Rodrigo Duterte. In a press conference at the sidelines of the 5th Session of the National People’s Congress, Wang said Duterte has appropriately handled the South China Sea issue. “Since President Duterte came into office, he has appropriately handled the South China Sea issue and actively improved relations with China,” Wang told local and foreign media. “This speaks of China’s intention to increase our friendship and cooperation with the Philippines,” Wang said. On the issue of South China Sea, Wang said the Philippines and China agreed to establish bilateral consultation and to set up cooperation mechanisms between the two countries’ coast guards.

Source: Manila Times March 08, 2017 09:50 UTC