Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 30) — Improved bilateral relations between the Philippines and China and the threat of terrorism in the region make a stronger case for joint military exercises, a top Chinese diplomat said.
“I think it is very important for the two militaries to exchange best practices, share intelligence, and even consider the possibility of having joint training exercises because the objective is clear,” Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua said Thursday.
“It is in the interest of not only China and the Philippines but also in the region, for us to deal effectively with the threat of terrorism,” Zhao told reporters during a reception commemorating the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to China.
Zhao said the two militaries “have already entered a new phase of dialogue and cooperation” after Duterte’s successful state visit to China in October 2016.
He added this new phase of cooperation may even bring both nations to a formal defense agreement similar to what the Philippines has with its long-time ally, the United States.
“I think the intention of both sides have been very clear but we need to explore what are the proper ways and channels to do it,” Zhao said.
As the Marawi crisis rages on its sixth week, the Philippines on Wednesday welcomed a donation from China of multi-million pesos worth of assault and sniper rifles with ammunition to augment the military’s firepower.
The Chinese government also donated P5 million ($100,000) to families of soldiers killed and wounded in the Marawi clashes.
“To Ambassador Zhao, please relate our sincerest thanks to President Xi Jinping and the government of the People’s Republic of China for its military aid package I will receive today in behalf of the Philippine government,” Duterte said on Wednesday during the turnover of the weapons.
READ: Duterte thanks China for firearms, ammo vs Mautes
Relations between the two countries have never been stronger since President Duterte took office a year ago and announced a foreign policy shift towards rapprochment with its neighbors, including China and Russia.
Duterte returned to China on May 14 to 15 to participate in the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation.
