Reiterates it will not accept aid that comes with “unilateral conditions” though
(Eagle News) — The Palace on Monday welcomed the European Union’s 3.8-million euros in aid for Philippine drug rehabilitation projects.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque reiterated in a press conference, however, that President Rodrigo Duterte would reject any aid that would come with any “unilateral conditions.”
The EU on Friday denied the funding comes with strings attached.
According to Roque, just the same “the EU’s desire to support (the country’s) drug rehabilitation centers runs parallel to the Duterte administration’s holistic approach to the drug problem..”
He said by this he meant that the drug problem was being treated not only as “a national security issue but (also as) a public health concern” that includes the rehabilitation and reintegration of the drug dependents.
Duterte has lashed out at the EU in several speeches in public, accusing the bloc of interfering in Philippine affairs.