Philippines, Russia to expand bilateral cooperation hinh anh 1Russian President Vladimir Putin (right) shakes hands with Philippine's President Rodrigo Duterte prior to their talks at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi. (Source: AFP)

Hanoi (VNA) – Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have agreed to enhance cooperation between the two countries.

Speaking at their talks with Duterte in the Russian city of Sochi on October 3, Putin affirmed the Philippines is an important partner of Russia in Asia, and their bilateral cooperation should be developed in a constructive and mutually-beneficial manner.

He said Russian companies are ready to increase deliveries to the Philippines of mineral resources, aircraft, transport and special equipment.

Russia is interested in cooperation with the Philippines in the fields of nuclear energy, space exploration and digital technology, Putin said, adding that Moscow is also willing to share its counter-terrorism experience and practices with the Southeast Asian nation.

For his part, Duterte confirmed his commitment to building a strong partnership with Russia.

According to the Philippine leader, the two countries have strengthened government-level cooperation over the last two years and promoted projects in the areas of defence, security and military techniques.

Duterte also highlighted the high-level advisory mechanism between the foreign ministries, the national security councils and the finance ministries of the two nations.

The talks between the two leaders was part of Duterte’s ongoing visit to Russia. This is the second visit by the Philippine leader to Russia after his first trip in May 2017./.  

VNA