Xi Jinping Sends Congratulatory Message to Philippine President-Elect Marcos

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Ferdinand Marcos, the president-elect of the Philippines. This move is interpreted as a sign that China hopes the Philippines will continue its pro-China stance amid fierce competition between the U.S. and China over strengthening diplomatic relations with the Philippines.

According to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the 12th, President Xi sent the congratulatory message to Marcos the day before. In the message, Xi stated, "China and the Philippines are close neighbors and partners who have shared hardships," adding, "Through joint efforts, the bilateral relationship has been continuously strengthened, contributing to the welfare of both peoples and regional peace and stability." He continued, "China and the Philippines are currently at an important stage of development, and the bilateral relationship faces significant opportunities," emphasizing, "I highly value the development of relations with the Philippines and hope to establish a good working relationship with President-elect Marcos."

President-elect Marcos is the son of former Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos, who ruled the country from 1965 to 1986. It is known that the Chinese government wants Marcos to continue the policy direction of current President Rodrigo Duterte, who has maintained a pro-China stance amid U.S.-China tensions.

Shortly after announcing his candidacy, Marcos expressed his intention to independently set the relationship with China, responding to media questions about ties with China by saying, "The two countries will engage in direct dialogue."

Within the Philippines, it is expected that the Marcos administration will continue the existing pro-China policies. The fact that Duterte's daughter, Sara, was elected vice president as Marcos's running mate has also led to forecasts that the current government's pro-China policy direction will be maintained.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.