President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte met today with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who is currently in Manila.

    The Inquirer reported today that the two sides held a discussion over a wide range of issues, including trade and investments, defense and security. Duterte said that he is hopeful of enhancing cooperation with Japan. "This include among others intensifying trades and investment, bolstering defense, and securing just and lasting peace in Mindanao, strengthening law enforcement against criminality, and ensuring maritime safety and security. Let us continue to work together to achieve goals of a more stable and secured region so that our nations and peoples can enjoy more peace, progress and prosperity," he added.

    For his part, Abe said his choice of the Philippines as his first overseas destination this year as a to his commitment to their bilateral relationship. "let us work hand in hand in addressing various challenges of the Asia Pacific region," Abe said.

    The Japanese Prime Minister began his visit earlier today.

Source: QNA