Today, we gather together to celebrate the 51st anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations, and the China–Philippines Friendship Day. On behalf of the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines, I would like to extend my sincere greetings and heartfelt gratitude to the overseas Chinese community and friends from all sectors who have long been supporting China–Philippines friendship.

A strong earthquake struck the southern Philippines this morning, causing casualties and property losses. On this occasion, may I begin by expressing our deep sorrow over the loss of life and property caused by the severe earthquake. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and our sincere sympathies to all those affected by this disaster.

Our thoughts are with the local government and people during this difficult time, and we sincerely hope that they will be able to overcome the impact of the earthquake at an early date and rebuild their homes and communities.

As close neighbors linked by the sea, China and the Philippines enjoy a long-standing and time-honored friendship. More than a thousand years ago, our peoples were already connected through trade and cultural exchanges along the Maritime Silk Road. Over the past 51 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, despite changes in the international and regional landscape, friendship and cooperation have remained the defining features of our bilateral relationship.

Since assuming my post in the Philippines six months ago, I have visited 18 provinces and engaged in extensive exchanges with representatives from government, business, media, and various sectors of society. Throughout these visits, I have been deeply touched by the warmth, kindness, and hospitality of the Filipino people. These experiences have further strengthened my conviction that China and the Philippines are bound by a profound tradition of friendship and extensive shared interests. There is no reason for our two countries to drift apart, and even less reason for us to stand in opposition to one another.

The Chinese Embassy has always regarded enhancing mutual understanding, deepening friendship, and expanding cooperation between our two countries as one of its foremost missions. To this end, we have actively promoted the resumption of political dialogue, laying a solid foundation for cooperation across various fields. We have worked to facilitate greater people-to-people exchanges, with several direct flight routes opened or resumed and tourist arrivals increasing significantly. We have strengthened law enforcement cooperation to better safeguard the lives and property of our peoples. We have also promoted exchanges in culture, education, and many other areas, delivering tangible benefits to both sides. These efforts reflect our firm commitment to fostering a stronger partnership and bringing our two peoples closer together.

There is enormous potential for cooperation between China and the Philippines. China is the Philippine’s largest trading partner and an important source of investment. China’s vast market offers valuable opportunities for the Philippine agricultural products, seafood exports, and tourism industry. China’s hybrid rice technology has helped the Philippine farmers increase yields and improve their incomes. Meanwhile, Chinese enterprises are actively contributing to the development of the Philippines’ solar energy, energy storage, and new energy vehicle industries.

Bridges, roads, energy facilities, and other infrastructure projects built with the participation of Chinese companies are helping to improve the daily lives of the Filipino people. Looking ahead, China stands ready to share with the Philippines the opportunities and innovations generated by China’s modernization, and work together toward common development and shared prosperity.

The development of China–Philippines relations requires not only the joint efforts of our two governments, but also the active participation and support of our two peoples. For generations, overseas Chinese have taken root in the Philippines, living in harmony and working side by side with the local community. Through your hard work and dedication, you have made significant contributions to the Philippines’ economic and social development while serving as an important bridge for cooperation, friendship, and people-to-people connectivity between our two countries.

I hope that all of you will continue to support the cause of China–Philippines friendship, share more stories of mutually beneficial cooperation, spread messages of unity and goodwill, and contribute even greater positive energy to the growth of our bilateral relations.

I firmly believe that as long as both sides uphold mutual respect, choose dialogue over confrontation, and place the well-being of our peoples at the center of our efforts, China–Philippines relations will continue to grow in a healthy, stable, and constructive manner, bringing even greater benefits to both nations and their peoples.

Finally, I wish for the enduring friendship between China and the Philippines to flourish for generations to come. I wish all our distinguished guests good health, happiness, and every success.

Thank you and mabuhay!