(Eagle News)–President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday, April 26, said development assistance should be “used as a genuine tool to bring about positive change in the lives of our peoples” but should “never promote dependence.”
Speaking before world leaders during a high-level meeting of the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, Duterte said development assistance must also be “a purposive decision of partner-states, taking into account mutual respect and mutual interests.”
“This should be the new normal. And it is in our interest to work together to make this a reality,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to sustain a broader and stronger connection with other countries across the region.
Duterte has expressed willingness to pursue more projects with China under the second Belt and Road initiative.
Since Duterte assumed office, he opted for improved relations with China, setting aside the ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration that invalidated China’s expansive claims in the West Philippine Sea.
Only recently though, Duterte said China, whose vessels were seen near Pagasa Island, should “lay off” the island claimed by the Philippines.
The Palace said a diplomatic protest would also be filed if media reports Chinese vessels were near Kota Island were proven.
