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By APD writer Melo M. Acuña
MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte arrived safely in Sochi Wednesday night for the second leg of his official trip to the Russian Federation.
In a statement released by Presidential Spokesperson Salvador S. Panelo to members of the media in Manila, he said the President Duterte’s overnight stay in Sochi is the highlight of his presidential visit to Russia.
He is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin Thursday night (Manila time) and both leaders will witness the signing of agreements expanding cooperation between the two countries.
As earlier reported, he will speak at the plenary session of the Valdai Discussion Club which is also known as Valdai Forum, said to be one of Russia’s most prominent and respected think tanks and discussion groups attended by top Russian and international officials and policymakers, academics and journalists.
Secretary Panelo said this year’s them is “The World Order Seen from the East,” a subject matter close to President Duterte.
He added President Duterte earlier met with Rosneft Oil Co. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Igor Sechin Wednesday night at Four Seasons Hotel in Moscow. Top Filipino cabinet officials led by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and Philippine Ambassador to the Russian Federation Carlos Sorreta joined the meeting.
President Duterte invited Rosneft, leader of the Russian oil industry, to invest in the Philippines, specifically on oil and gas development. Rosneft senior officials also attended the meeting.
According to Secretary Panelo, President Duterte said any agreement reached will undergo the proper domestic process and comply with applicable laws and pertinent rules and regulations to avoid possible corruption or irregularity.
(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)
