PM Phuc meets Philippine President on regional summit margin

PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) and Philippines' President Rodrigo Duterte meet on the sidelines of the 32nd ASEAN Summit in Singapore on April 27, 2018. Photo: VGP

At their meeting, the two leaders expressed their pleasure at fruitful strategic partnership between Viet Nam and the Philippines as reflected through frequent meetings and exchanges, especially in security and defence, and improved economic-trade ties.

The two-way trade surpassed US$4 billion in 2017, an annual increase of 25%, with rice trade bringing about practical mutual benefits.

PM Phuc suggested the two countries continue exchange of high-ranking delegations, and actively implement cooperation mechanisms, particularly in oil spill response, search and rescue at sea, sustainable marine management, fisheries and anti-terrorism.

Photo: VGP

Meanwhie, Philippine President Duterte emphasized that his country values the friendship and cooperation with Viet Nam, and is willing to work with Viet Nam in areas that the two sides can supplement each other.

He expressed thanks to the Vietnamese Government for creating conditions for Philippine citizens to live and do business in the country.

The two leaders discussed regional and international issues of common concern, including collaboration within ASEAN, the East Sea issue, and fight against marine crime. PM Phuc took the occasion to congratulate the Philippines on its successful ASEAN chairmanship in 2017. 

Regarding the East Sea issue, both sides highlighted the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security, safety and freedom of navigation and overflight in the waters. They affirmed that disputes must be peacefully settled in accordance with international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The two leaders voiced support for full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of the Parties in the East Sea (DOC), and for early conclusion of an effective and legally-binding Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) between ASEAN and China./.

By Ngoc Van