China is looking forward to the visit of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, saying the relations between the two nations are improving "beautifully" under his term.

While the date of the visit is yet to be confirmed, the Chinese foreign ministry said Beijing is in close communication with Philippine officials, the Philippine Star reported.

Like Us on Facebook

"We have expressed our welcome to President Duterte's visit on many occasions. We hope that he can make this trip as soon as possible," Geng Shuang, spokesperson from China's foreign ministry, said.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Zhao Jianhua said China and the Philippines have been engaging in "friendly interactions" since the tough-talking leader assumed office in June.

"The clouds are fading away. The sun is rising over the horizon and will shine beautifully on the new chapter of bilateral relations," Zhao said in a speech at an embassy relation late Tuesday.

Zhao further added that China "firmly supports" Duterte's campaign against illegal drugs that received criticism from the West for alleged extrajudicial killings, according to the Inquirer.

"The Chinese side fully understands and firmly supports the Duterte administration's policy that [prioritizes] the fight against drug crimes," Zhao said, adding that China would help in the anti-drug campaign.

According to the Philippine Star, Zhao believes that the Philippines is warming up its relations with China not to brandish the July 12 ruling on Beijing's claim on South China Sea and West Philippine Sea.

"I don't think that's the intention of the Filipino government I think warming up relations with China has its own merits. The advantages that will promote not only friendship and cooperation between the two countries and will also contribute to the development of the Philippines," he said.

TagsPresident Duterte, china, Philippine China relations, international relations, Ambassador Zhao Jianhua, Rodrigo Duterte, Philippines