A Philippine media delegation recently concluded a tour of China to witness and experience the country's ancient civilization, the history of the Communist Party of China, and Chinese-style modernization.
The group of 15 officials and journalists was led by Gerald Baria, the undersecretary of the Presidential Communications Office of the Philippines. The tour, at the invitation of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines, ran from June 27 to July 7.
The delegation was the first Philippine media group the ministry has welcomed since the pandemic. They started the tour in Beijing, which embodies the ancient spirit of Chinese history and modern vitality.
Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong welcomed the delegation. He said China and the Philippines are close neighbors separated by a strip of water. China has always sincerely regarded the Philippines as a good relative and good partner, and will join hands with the Philippines for the common development and modernization of both countries.
To understand how the Party led its people in revolutionary times, the group traveled to Yanan's Liangjiahe village and the historic site of the Party's first National Congress in Shanghai. The delegation also visited sites representing China's technological innovation, rural revitalization, poverty eradication, and ecological development. The tour wrapped up in Shanghai, a forerunner of China's reform and opening-up and a hallmark of Chinese-style modernization.
Officials of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs say China and the Philippines are at a key stage of development. Both sides have great potential and complement each other. China is willing to work with the Philippines to promote and sustain cooperation for future achievements.
Preparations for the trip made it possible for the Philippine guests to exchange views, explore future opportunities for cooperation, and establish a comprehensive view of China. Journalists in the delegation recognized China's willingness to work with the Philippine people and share experiences in building a modernized country.
Chinese Foreign Ministry officials say the visit was a journey of friendship designed to show sincerity and friendliness toward the Philippine government and people. It was also a journey of understanding that allowed the journalists to see a true and dynamic China with their own eyes.
It was also a journey of cooperation. The ministry officials said they hope the trips to China's urban and suburban areas and the companies the journalists visited will inspire new possibilities for cooperation.
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