Chinese president Xi arrives in Philippines

November 20, 2018

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived on Tuesday for his two-day state visit in Manila, the first by a Chinese leader since 2005.

Xi arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport around 11:45 am.

In his arrival speech, Xi said it is a great pleasure to visit the Philippines as it will "cement" traditional friendships, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and will enhance the joint effort of the two countries for common development.

"I am convinced that this visit will cement the traditional friendship, deepen the mutually beneficial cooperation and enhance the joint effort of the two sides for common development," he said.

"As friendly neighbors across the sea, China and the Philippines enjoy geographical proximity and a strong bond that links our peoples and cultures," Xi said.

He thanked President Rodrigo Duterte for his efforts in reopening the door of friendship and cooperation to each other.

"Since President Duterte took office, thanks to the joint efforts of our two sides, we have reopened the door of friendship and cooperation to each other, bringing real benefits to our peoples and making an important contribution to regional peace, stability and prosperity," he said.

Xi said "friendship is the only right choice" for the two countries.

China stands ready to work with the Philippines for even greater progress in our relations," he added.

Xi said he is looking forward with meeting Duterte for in-depth exchange of views and on issues of mutual interest.

"As I start this visit, I look forward to meeting with President Duterte for an in-depth exchange of views on how to further strengthen China-Philippine relations and on regional and international issues of mutual interest," he said.

In his speech, he said he is set to meet House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Senate President Vicente Sotto III. Ella Dionisio/DMS