Philippines expects closer relations with Xiamen

A delegation led by the president of Philippine Council for Foreign Relations (PCFR) visits Xiamen, Fujian province, from Oct 10 to 12. [Photo/fo.xm.gov.cn]

A delegation led by the president of the Philippine Council for Foreign Relations (PCFR) visited Xiamen, a coastal city in Fujian province from Oct 10 to 12.

Li Xiaoping, director of Xiamen's Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs Office, briefed delegation members on the city's latest economic and social development during a meeting with the Philippine delegation on Oct 10.

Li said that the Philippines is home to numerous Chinese whose ancestral homes are in Fujian and the country has located its consulate general in Xiamen.

He added that Xiamen has made remarkable contributions to the development of China-Philippines relations over many years.

Rafael M. Alunan, the head of the delegation, spoke highly of the achievements Xiamen has made since China's reform and opening-up 40 years ago.

Rafael said he expected closer relations and more frequent trade with Xiamen because of the city's vitality, huge development potential and advanced hi-tech industry.

The delegation also visited the local Huaqiao University, which educates more than 400 officials and students from the Philippines each year.

During their visit, the Philippine delegation reached a primary agreement with the Chinese university's College of International Relations with a view to establishing a long-term communication relationship.

The Philippine delegation visits Gulangyu Island, which was included as a world cultural heritage site in July 2017. [Photo/fo.xm.gov.cn]