Just a few days before the assumption of US President-elect Donald Trump, the United States has pledged to continue supporting the Philippines in the areas of maritime security, law enforcement, and development aid to Mindanao, among others, as part of their solid bilateral relations.
The assurance was relayed by US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim in a “very productive” meeting with President Duterte in Davao City last Sunday, according to presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella.
“He reiterated the commitment of the US to the bilateral relationship with the RP which he described as “solid,” Abella said.
“Citing cooperation in law enforcement, Ambassador Sung Kim stressed that the US will continue to provide support, including intelligence exchange and in maritime security,” he said.
Abella said the US Ambassador also discussed US-Philippines military cooperation, particularly in the fight against terrorism, and the extent of US assistance to Mindanao.
The President’s meeting with the US envoy was held shortly after leading the launching of the country’s chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in Davao City. It last 45 minutes, Abella said.
“The US Ambassador congratulated the PH on its assumption of the ASEAN hosting and looked forward to a successful leadership,” he said. “It was a very productive meeting marked by an open exchange of ideas,” he added.
(Genalyn D. Kabiling)