The Philippine consulate general in Xiamen held a national day reception on June 21 in celebration of the 119th Independence Day.
Around 200 guests were invited to the event, including Chinese officials, Philippine diplomats and civilians in the city.
Han Jingyi, deputy mayor of Xiamen, made a speech at the reception, expressing his gratitude to the Philippine consulate general for contributions to promoting the exchanges between Xiamen and the Philippines.
Han Jingyi, deputy mayor of Xiamen, gives a speech at the Philippine national day reception on June 21, 2017. [Photo/xmfo.gov.cn]
The Philippines is a friendly and close neighbor of China and a vital partner for promoting the Belt and Road Initiative. Whilst providing support for the initiative, Xiamen is also capitalizing on its advantageous location and policies to establish itself as a key demonstration city for China's "five development concepts" of innovation, harmonization, sustainability, openness and sharing, according to Han.
As Xiamen is scheduled to host the BRICS Summit on Sept 3-5, Han stressed that the city will take the opportunity to create a world-class business environment and build a bilateral investment platform for countries taking part in the initiative.
Julius Caesar Flores, the Philippine consul general in Xiamen, also attended the reception. In his speech, he noted Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's visit to China in October ushered in a new era for China-Philippines cooperation.
The consulate general will continue to play an active role in promoting the cooperation between Xiamen and the Philippines as well as the development of China-Philippines ties. Han also looks forward to enhancing collaboration and exchanges between Xiamen and the Philippines.
China announced and implemented on May 15 a policy allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country's coastline.
China and Georgia are set to waive visa requirements for travelers starting May 28.
