The Manila Forum for China-Philippines Relations and the Award for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding were launched here on Saturday.

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and former Philippine president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo attended the launching ceremony via video link.

In recent years, under the guidance of the heads of state of the two countries, the China-Philippines relations have witnessed a turnaround and realized comprehensive development, which is conducive to regional prosperity and stability, and is in line with the fundamental and long-term interests of the peoples of both countries, said Wang.

Wang said the Chinese side is ready to support and help the Philippines by providing vaccines to the country as required, join hands with the Philippines to tide over the difficulties till the fight against the pandemic is won.

Wang also said the Chinese side will fully support the holding of the Manila Forum for China-Philippines Relations and the setting up of the Award for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding.

Arroyo said that the visit to the Philippines by the Chinese delegation shows China's confidence in the Philippines and the administration under President Rodrigo Duterte.

The establishment of the Manila Forum for China-Philippines Relations will help the two countries strengthen mutual understanding, boost mutual trust and overcome differences, she said.

The Philippine people have high expectations for the Award for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding, which is expected to further promote the friendship between the two peoples, the former president said.

She hoped that the two sides will work to constantly develop bilateral friendly cooperation, accelerate post-pandemic economic recovery, and continuously inject new vitality into the Philippines-China friendship.