ILOILO City – The People’s Republic of China seeks to further strengthen its relations with the Philippines and the province of Iloilo could play a role, according to Chinese consul general Jia Li.
Jia, who was in the city as special guest of the 15th founding anniversary luncheon of the Iloilo Scholastic Academy at Iloilo Grand Xing Imperial Hotel, made a courtesy call to Gov. Arthur Defensor Sr. yesterday at the provincial capitol.
“I want to meet the governor. This is an opportunity to discuss how we can enhance the relationship of China and the Philippines, may it be political, economic or cultural,” said Jia.
Defensor welcomed Jia and told the consul that Iloilo hosts one of the biggest Chinese communities in the country.
The Ilonggo-Chinese community is instrumental in making the business environment of Iloilo province and city vibrant, added Defensor.
“Iloilo is one of the earliest Chinese settlements long before the Americans arrived. We’ve been traiding with China for centuries,” the governor added.
Jia invited Defensor to visit the Chinese consulate in Cebu which is open to accommodate any concern of Iloilo that the governor may wish to convey.
He also said there could be a people-to-people exchange program between China and Iloilo.
For example, he said, Filipino youths may study Mandarin in China while Chinese youth may learn more about the Filipino culture and history.
“The youth is the future of our countries. They are important resources of our nations,” said Jia./PN
