Malacañang Golf (MALAGO) Clubhouse, Malacañang Park, Manila
September 11, 2020

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte received General Wei Fenghe, State Councilor and Minister of National Defense of the People’s Republic of China, in a courtesy call held at the Malacañang Golf (MALAGO) Clubhouse in Malacañang Park, Manila.

In a statement released by the Office of the President, the Chief Executive acknowledged the positive developments in the Philippines-China defense and security cooperation, as well as China’s continuing support for the Philippines’ defense modernization since 2017.

On matters concerning the South China Sea, President Duterte stressed the importance of concluding an effective and substantive Code of Conduct that shall be the lasting legacy of countries comprising the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China in ensuring peace, security and stability in the area.

During the courtesy call, State Councilor and Defense Minister Wei conveyed that China is ready to embark on maritime cooperation with the Philippines and advance negotiations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.

The Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister is in the Philippines as part of a swing tour of ASEAN countries that include Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam.

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