MANILA -- China will play an important role in global affairs in the coming decades, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said, as he called on the Asian economic giant for a sustained dialogue and peaceful engagement to attain mutual benefits.

In his virtual participation to the Communist Party of China and World Political Parties Summit Tuesday, President Duterte said China has realized its dream of progress and prosperity for its people adding, however, that great power entails immense responsibility.

“There won’t be any turning back. China has risen and will play an important role in global affairs for decades to come,” the President said.

“The world faces tremendous challenges – from COVID-19 to climate change and various security threats. While we see difficulties, we also glean many opportunities for greater cooperation and solidarity.”

The Filipino leader extended his gratitude to the Chinese government for its timely assistance to the Philippines to contain the COVID-19 pandemic and restart its economy.

To further build mutual trust and confidence, the President said the two nations must sustain their constructive dialogue and peaceful engagement.

“This is crucial as the bilateral relations between our two countries expand and deepen. We count on China as a friend and partner for peace and development,” he stressed.

“We trust in the collective wisdom of the great Chinese nation — that China will use its newfound strength in defense of what is good and just for all humanity.”

Nations exist in one global village and therefore their destinies are inextricably linked with each other, President Duterte said. Therefore, peace and prosperity must be shared and enjoyed by all, he added.

The Philippine president also congratulated the Communist Party of the People’s Republic of China on its Centennial Founding Anniversary.

Through the Communist Party of China’s visionary leadership, the Asian behemoth made an extraordinary rise to prosperity, lifting over 800 million Chinese out of extreme poverty and driving global growth in the process.

This unique achievement was made possible by the collective and dedicated efforts of the Chinese people under the leadership of the CPC, according to President Duterte.

The Communist Party of China and World Political Parties Summit is an important multilateral diplomatic event organized as the CPC marks its centenary.

The summit aims to strengthen exchanges between the CPC and political parties from other countries and mutual learning in governance, enable joint responses to challenges like the current pandemic, as well as enhance the capability of improving people’s well-being.

It also seeks to advance world peace and development, and promote the creation of a community with shared future for mankind.

The summit has for its theme “For the People’s Wellbeing: The Responsibility of Political Parties.” (PND)