Presidential Palace, Nay Pyi Taw
March 20, 2017

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte attended an official dinner hosted by President U Htin Kyaw of Myanmar at the Presidential Palace on the final day of his official visit to the Republic of the Union of Myanmar.

“I am pleased to finally visit your beautiful country. It is a rich nation in history and culture and a people’s feat in proud traditions. For the singular experience, I am thankful to President U Htin Kyaw, the welcome has been warm and the hospitality, most generous. I feel I am at home and amongst friends,” the President said in his remarks.

He added that six decades of formal diplomatic relationship saw the growth of an abiding and flourishing friendship, leading to “remarkable progress and active cooperation in the areas of agriculture, labor and trade and investment.” He encouraged both countries to sustain the growth rate in trade and investment so that all of their peoples will benefit.

He noted that the Philippines and Myanmar face similar and complex problems as developing nations. As such, the two countries must not be afraid to confront these and be able to transform challenges to opportunities.

He emphasized that there exists respect and mutual understanding between the two countries, resulting to cooperation in times of calamities and disasters. “As friends and partners…there is much to look forward to,” President Duterte ended.

After the official dinner, the President proceeded to the Nay Pyi Taw International Airport and headed to his next stop in Bangkok, Thailand.

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