Manila Bulletin
US seeks strong ties with PH as 'equal sovereign partner,' Pentagon chief tells Duterte
President Rodrigo Duterte and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin have agreed to strengthen the alliance between the Philippines and the United States, focusing on combating illegal drugs and addressing the COVID-19 pandemic.
The meeting between the two officials was held in Manila as the two nations commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations and 70 years of the Mutual Defense Treaty.
Both leaders acknowledged that enhanced communication and cooperation would elevate the ties between the two countries, particularly in pandemic response, fighting transnational crimes like the drug war, maritime awareness, upholding the rule of law, and boosting trade and investments.
President Duterte expressed gratitude to the US for its support in the COVID-19 pandemic, including vaccine donations through the COVAX facility.
Secretary Austin conveyed his respect for Filipinos and emphasized the US's desire for a robust relationship with the Philippines as an equal sovereign partner.
The courtesy call lasted for 75 minutes.
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