“On behalf of the Philippine government and the people of the Philippines, I warmly welcome you President Xi and your delegation,” sabi ni Duterte sa kanyang opening statement bago ang kanilang bilateral meeting sa Malacanang.
Bago nito, pinangunahan din ni Duterte ang welcome ceremony para kay Xi sa Palace grounds.
Kasama ni Duterte si presidential daughter at Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte sa mga opisyal na pagtitipon sa Malacanang.
“For the Philippines, this is more than a reciprocal visit. It is a historic occasion, the very first state visit to be made by Chinese president in 13 years,” dagdag ni Duterte.
Idinagdag ni Duterte na makasaysayan ang pagbisita ni Xi sa bansa.
“Today therefore is a landmark moment in our shared history. We have turned a new page and we are ready to write a new chapter of openness and cooperation. I look forward to fruitful discussions today as we review the progress we have made and chart the course towards to further enhance partnership all in the spirit of friendship, mutual understanding and respect for sovereign equality,” ayon pa kay Duterte.