Economic managers from the Philippines presented a total of 40 small and large infrastructure projects for potential financing by China. (Photo : Getty Images)
Sources from the Chinese foreign ministry said that talks are ongoing for a large event in May to discuss projects for the One Belt, One Road Initiative. Various world leaders are expected to attend as well.
The One Belt, One Road Initiative aims to get 60 countries to invest in infrastructure projects to develop the old Silk Road that once connected China with Central Asia, Europe and beyond.
President Duterte's second trip shows that the Philippines is eager to build closer relations with China and a further relationship with the U.S.
China's Vice Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin released a statement through the Chinese foreign ministry saying that he was pleased with how ties had developed since he came to China last year.
"I will come to Beijing in May to attend the 'One Belt, One Road' international cooperation summit forum, and I look forward to meeting President Xi Jinping again," said President Duterte.
Duterte reiterated last month he wanted to avoid confrontation with China and saw no need to press Beijing to abide by a July ruling on China's claims in the disputed the South China Sea that went in favor of the Philippines.
The Philippine leader intends to settle the dispute over the South China Sea through diplomatic talks and is seeking assistance from Japan.
"To the Chinese government, I said, well if that is the thing, that is what is in your mind because that is also my stand, we will find the day to talk about it, only on the issue of the South China Sea and no topic at all. It could be bilateral, it depends on the development, it could be multilateral and that would include Japan. Those are what I suggested, in the future," Duterte said.
"My talks with the Japanese government particularly the Prime Minister would be on an economic operation and of course shared interest. Now, the most important thing there is the shared interest is really about the South China Sea," the Philippine President added.
