MOSCOW, Russia – President Duterte can soon be called a doctor as the Moscow State Institute of International Relations is set to confer on him an honorary doctorate degree for the dramatic turn in the Philippines-Russia relations since he assumed office in 2016.
Philippine Ambassador to Russia Carlos Sorreta made the statement days before President Duterte accepts the award here tomorrow.
Sorreta said Duterte has been offered the same recognition by other countries in the past but this was the first time the President accepted such award.
According to the envoy, the MGIMO chose Duterte because of the dramatic turn in the bilateral relations between the two countries.
“The turn in Philippines-Russia relations, I think, is nothing short of dramatic,” Sorreta said when asked how the MGIMO decided to give Duterte the honorary doctorate. “There will be a citation in – something about for valuable contribution to Philippines-Russia relations,” he added.
The MGIMO is one of the most prestigious and leading academic institutions in Russia in the area of diplomacy and international affairs. Duterte is set to give a brief lecture in the university after he receives his award.
According to Sorreta, Duterte will speak and talk about the Philippines-China relations and will answer questions from the students. “We’re hoping he will address the faculty and students and tell them what’s in store for Philippines, Russia in the future. Maybe Russia, ASEAN also for the future,” he said. (Argyll Geducos)
