By APD writer Melo M. Acuna

MANILA, Nov.19 (APD) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said he will arrive on Tuesday for a state visit to the Philippines at the invitation of President Rodrigo Duterte. In a statement published in major broadsheets on Monday, President Xi said he is full of expectations as he is about “to set foot on this beautiful land, an ever-growing nation and home to an honest and friendly people.”

He said the exchange of ships and merchants between China and the Philippines began more than a thousand years ago.

“Over 600 years ago, Chinese navigator Zheng He made multiple visits to Manila Bay, Visayas and Sulu on his seven overseas voyages seeking friendship and cooperation,” he said in his statement released by the Chinese Embassy in Manila.

He added the King of Sulu embarked on a goodwill visit to China “bringing with him good wishes to the Chinese people and leaving behind touching stories of China-Philippines friendship.” He explained many Chinese from the southeast coast sailed and settled down in the Philippines and have since lived in harmony with the local community.

President Xi said the ancestors of the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal came from Jinjiang in Fujian Province while the famed Chinese General Ye Fei, who fought to establish a New China, was born in Tiaong, Quezon.

“For both our peoples, these are proud names to remember,” he further said.

Acknowledging President Duterte’s efforts to bring the two countries closer, President Xi said dialogue and consultation for the proper handling of the South China Sea issue became the norm.

He said in just over two years, China has become the Philippines’ largest trading partner, largest export market and largest source of imports, and even the second largest source of tourists as well as a surge in interest for private investments in each other’s countries. Interactions between cultural groups have become frequent.

“More and more Philippine fruits are coming to the dining table in Chinese households and a growing number of scenic spots are being included in the itinerary of Chinese tourists,” he further explained.

He reiterated his government’s firm support for the Philippines’ fight against illegal drugs and terrorism and post-conflict reconstruction efforts in Marawi City.

President Xi called for more efforts to deepen political mutual trust to sustain growth of China-Philippine relations as his government “wishes to work with the Philippines to draw up blueprints for future relations with a broader perspective, and strengthen strategic communication on bilateral ties and major regional and international issues. He mentioned proper handling of differences through “friendly consultations, enhancement of dialogue and cooperation on maritime issues and make the South China Sea a sea of peace, friendship and cooperation.”

He called for the enhancement of practical cooperation “to cement” the foundation of China-Philippine relations. He added with the country’s unique geographical advantage, the Philippines has been considered a natural partner in the Belt and Road Initiative. China also intends to renew the legacy of the ancient maritime silk road. China, he added, will continue to deepen its cooperation with the Philippines in defense, drug control, counter-terrorism and law enforcement.

President Xi underscored the need to strengthen the people-to people ties because it will keep the China – Philippine relations strong as ever as before through exchanges on education, science and technology, culture and between the youths.

He also emphasized the need to deepen East Asia cooperation for win-win results as both China and ASEAN marked the 15 anniversary of China – ASEAN strategic partnership.

“The Philippines successfully hosted East Asia leaders’ meetings last year, and has taken over the important role as country coordinator for ASEAN-China relations this year,” President Xi emphasized.

He said that trade liberalization and economic globalization is unstoppable these days as China stands ready to share with all countries the opportunities and potential of its market.

“Several centuries ago, China’s GDP already accounted for 30 percent of the global total yet it never engaged in aggressive or expansion,” he explained.

In closing, he said “China will work with the Philippines to seize the opportunity and go along with the trend of our time.”

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)