Malaca±ang: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. welcomed the meeting between United States President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, emphasizing the significance of continued dialogue between the world's two largest economies for global peace, stability, and economic cooperation.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos addressed Japanese reporters on Monday, highlighting that the talks between Trump and Xi are crucial not only for the U.S. and China but also for the rest of the world amid ongoing geopolitical and economic tensions. He noted that while details of the meeting have yet to be disclosed, the continuation of direct communication between Washington and Beijing is an encouraging development.

The two sides have been embroiled in a tit-for-tat trade war that has disrupted supply chains. However, Xi and Trump reached a truce during a meeting on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation in South Korea last October. President Marcos expressed hope that the ongoing exchanges between China and the U.S. would help reduce tensions, not only in trade but also in broader geopolitical issues, including military confrontations in various regions.

Marcos emphasized the importance of viewing peace not only in military terms but also in terms of economic stability and cooperation. He stated that healthy competition among nations is beneficial, particularly for innovation and consumers, but stressed that cooperation should remain the ultimate goal. The President expressed optimism that the meeting would lead to a reduction in the intensity of economic confrontation between the two powers and yield outcomes that positively affect the global economy.

Furthermore, President Marcos welcomed reports that Xi had agreed to visit the United States in the future, considering it another positive sign for international relations. Marcos himself is set to embark on a four-day state visit to Japan from May 26 to May 29 to mark the 70th anniversary of the two countries' diplomatic ties.