MANILA, Philippines — Extending his greetings on China's 69th founding anniversary, President Rodrigo Duterte told Chinese President Xi Jinping that their recent interactions have "borne much fruit." "As we continue to cooperate in promoting and sustaining peace, stability and security, it is my hope that our friendship will lead to a stronger partnership in the bilateral, regional and multilateral fora," Duterte said in his letter to Xi. The Chinese president is expected to visit the country this year. "I look forward to welcoming you in Manila soon and to discuss the path forward our countries and peoples to sustain our bonds and make it more meaningful," Duterte told Xi. The arbitral ruling, which was a victory for the Philippines, invalidated China's nine-dash line claim over the South China Sea.

Source: Philippine Star October 01, 2018 08:03 UTC