Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday called presumptive president Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. "a builder, supporter and promoter" of the China-Philippines friendship.
In a statement, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines said Xi and Marcos Jr. had a phone call earlier in the day to congratulate the latter on his imminent victory in the recent May 9 polls.
The son and namesake of the late dictator is set to succeed President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, who had forged a good-neighborly friendship with Beijing despite the issues concerning the West Philippine Sea, on June 30, 2022.
The Chinese president said the two countries should also "grasp the general trend, write a grand story on the China-Philippines friendship in the new era and follow through the blueprint for bilateral friendly cooperation, so as to usher in an even brighter future for the bilateral ties."
Xi also noted that in the past six years, the two economies have adhered to good-neighborly friendship, worked for common development, and established a comprehensive strategic cooperative relationship. Both have also managed differences through dialogue and consultation, promoted practical cooperation in various fields, and achieved fruitful results in bilateral relations.
"China is ready to step up exchanges of governance experience with the Philippines, expand and strengthen existing cooperation with a focus on national economy and people's welfare in such fields as infrastructure, agriculture, energy and education, as well as the anti-COVID-19 fight and post-pandemic recovery, foster new growth areas and promote development and revitalization of the two countries and the region at large," the Chinese leader said.
Xi, likewise, vowed to always provide active support and assistance to the Philippines in its economic and social development.
Independent foreign policy
The Chinese leader also expressed his hopes that Marcos will continue the Philippines' pursuit of an independent foreign policy.
"The Chinese side stands ready to work with the Philippines to strengthen strategic communication and coordination over major international and regional issues, and safeguard the sound momentum of peace and development in the region," said Xi.
Recalling his friendly exchanges with China, Marcos said that the Philippine people regard China as one of their most important partners.
