TOKYO, Japan June 4 (PNA) — President Aquino thanks Emperor Akihito for honoring long friendship between the Philippines and Japan
President Benigno S. Aquino III said he sees stronger relations between the Philippines and Japan as a result of a commitment based on mutual respect, dignity, and solidarity.
“For 59 years, our two nations have demonstrated that we can work together for our advancement and mutual benefit,” the President said here Wednesday evening during a banquet hosted by Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko in his honor.
“Tonight, I am here in Tokyo as the leader of the Filipino nation, proud friends and partners of the Japanese people — the representative of a nation that has rediscovered its optimism and confidence.”
Mentioning the significant gains the Philippines has made under his watch, President Aquino said the success that the country has been enjoying is anchored on an unrelenting commitment to good governance and the backing of the Filipino people, who value integrity and honesty, knowing that true public service is the path towards realizing their aspirations.
These gains also became possible, owing to the support of the country’s international partners, he said.
Japan, he noted, is a major partner in this endeavor — from the Philippines’ economic interactions, to the two countries’ commitment to peace and development in Mindanao; from people-to-people exchanges to aid during calamities, and the shared advocacy of peace and the rule of law.
“Your Majesties, in the Philippines, friendships are not restricted to a single lifetime: they are cross-generational, in which long-standing relationships between parties are treasured and preserved,” he said.
He said the two countries’ relations have blossomed into a deep and abiding friendship, and a strategic partnership that will serve their peoples well.
“I say this with full confidence, because ours is a relationship founded on shared values: the importance we give to democracy, the unflagging strength of Filipinos and the Japanese, and our dedication to uplifting the lives of all our peoples, under the auspices of ‘achieving peace everywhere’,” he said.
The President expressed his deep appreciation for the Japanese emperor’s kindness and thanked him for honoring the lasting friendship that the two countries have maintained. (PNA)