Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Rodrigo Duterte exchanged warm greetings on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two states.According to the Kremlin Press Service, prior to the two leaders' telephone conversation on June 2, Putin had sent a congratulatory telegram to Duterte which read, in part, 'Over the past decades, Russia and the Philippines have accumulated substantial experience of constructive bilateral cooperation in various fields, as well as fruitful cooperation within the framework of the UN and other international organizations.'I am confident that, by relying on these good traditions, we will ensure the subsequent development of the entire range of Russian-Filipino ties. This, doubtless, meets the interests of our friendly nations and is consonant with strengthening security and stability in the Asia-Pacific region,' the message added.In the same phone call, the two heads of state further expressed appreciation for the high level of bilateral cooperation achieved by the two countries during these trying times.As such, mutual interest was reaffirmed 'in the continued efforts to expand interaction in various spheres, including the implementation of joint projects in energy, agriculture, transport, humanitarian and other spheres.'It was also agreed that both nations will continue coordinating efforts on the international stage, primarily at the United Nations.In discussing the joint struggle against the spread of the coronavirus infection, the presidents 'focused on the delivery of Russian vaccines to the Philippines.'
