President Duterte is eager to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin next month not only to enhance bilateral economic relations but also find out his secret to happiness.
The President is scheduled to make his maiden trip to Moscow on May 25 soon after his visits to three Middle Eastern countries and China.
“How do you stay single and be happy all the time, Mr. Putin? I’d like to ask him that question. Give me the secret,” the President said during an event of the Metro Manila Development Authority in Makati City last Tuesday.
Putin has lived a bachelor’s life since his split with wife Lyudmila in 2013 after 30 years of marriage. The 63-year-old strongman reportedly has a new girlfriend.
Duterte’s marriage to Elizabeth Zimmerman was annulled several years ago. They have three children. The President now lives with longtime partner Honeylet Avanceña with whom he has a daughter named Kitty.
In his remarks, the President also intends to tap Russia as the country’s gateway to improved trade and investment relations in Eastern Europe. (Genalyn D. Kabiling)