President Duterte said yesterday he would work for better cooperation with Hanoi in maritime security and law enforcement against illegal drugs when he makes a two-day official visit to Vietnam.
“We will seek to identify emerging areas of partnership, particularly in the fields of maritime security and law enforcement. We shall also seek ways to advance collaboration in the campaign against illegal-drugs trade, consistent with the goal of realizing an Asean drug-free community,” Mr. Duterte said in his departure speech on Wednesday.
In a news conference in Malacañang, Foreign Affairs Spokesman Charles Jose said Duterte is prepared to discuss with Vietnam the territorial dispute in the South China Sea, some portions of which is being claimed by Vietnam.
“The President will be prepared to discuss the South China Sea issue. If ever this will be discussed, this will be in the context of, of course, emphasizing the need or the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security in the region,” Jose said. “And it will be in the context of reaffirming our firm commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes and our adherence to the rule of law,” he added. But Jose said the proposed joint exploration activities, which was brought up during the Arroyo administration, between the Philippines, China and Vietnam in the South China Sea would probably not be discussed during Mr. Duterte’s two-day official visit to Vietnam.
The President said the Philippines and Vietnam should have closer relations since they have mutual concerns, being both maritime nations.
“As maritime nations with rapidly developing economies, we acknowledge the convergence of our strategic interests. Broadening cooperation and collaboration between the Philippines and Vietnam is the way forward. Solidifying our strategic partnership is key to further strengthening our countries and the larger region we belong to,” he said.
While in Vietnam, the President is scheduled to meet with Filipino and Vietnamese groups, and the Filipino community there. Mr. Duterte will be in Vietnam until September 29.
His official delegation includes Foreign Secretary Perfecto R. Ya Jr. say; Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez; Justice Secretary Vitaliano N. Aguirre II; National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon; Sen. Alan Peter S. Cayetano; Sen. Francis G. Escudero; Presidential Communications Secretary Martin M. Andanar; Cabinet Secretary Leoncio B. Evasco, and; Philippine Ambassador to Vietnam Noel M. Servigon.