Press Release
November 21, 2018

Senate President Vicente C. Sotto's statement
during the Joint call on both Houses of Congress by the
President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping

In his opening statement during the joint call on both Houses of Congress by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Senate President Vicente C. Sotto III stated the importance of the good diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China.

Moreover, he emphasized that there is certainly much more that binds the Philippines and China together than what may divide the two. It is in the spirit of friendship that the Philippine delegation welcomed His Excellency Xi to the Philippines.

In his response, President Xi stressed that the South China Sea is a sea of friendship and cooperation that creates a bond of friendship for the two nations. Furthermore, President Xi laid down to the members of Congress his future plans for Filipinos, which include increasing job opportunities for Filipino teachers and nurses; multiplying mutual visits from 1 Million to 2 Million; and opening up free trade to the Philippines, among others.

After the joint call, Senate President Sotto thanked President Xi for accommodating them and said he is looking forward to have a common strategic cooperation with China.

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