The China-Philippine Years of Friendly Exchanges 2012-2013 was officially launched at the Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Mar. 20, signaling the start of further exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.
In his opening speech, the Philippines' Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario stressed that since the beginning of the new millennium, the Philippines and China have developed one of the most open and vibrant bilateral relations of any two countries in the world.
Del Rosario said, "Between 2012 and 2013, we will host a full range of cultural performances, art exhibitions and other events." He added that the Philippines are confident the two-year exchanges will form the start of an even brighter and more vibrant chapter for enduring friendship between the two nations.
Niu Dun, China's special envoy and Vice Minister of Agriculture, said that the two nations and their people have greatly benefited from the bilateral exchanges and cooperation in various areas since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1975. Niu emphasized that political mutual trust is the basis for the development of bilateral relations, which need to be enhanced through pragmatic cooperation and people-to-people activities.
Over the coming two years, a series of activities in various fields will be held, covering politics, economy, culture, tourism, jurisdiction and defense. Some of the events will include the establishment of China- Philippine Friendship Association, China's offering 70 government scholarships to the Philippine students and the strengthening of cooperation in disaster reduction and relief.
The China-Philippine Years of Friendly Exchanges 2012-2013 was agreed upon by Chinese President Hu Jintao and the Philippines' President Benigno Aquino III when the latter paid a state visit to China last year.