Duterte thanks India’s support for Marawi rehab

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte thanked Indian President Ram Nath Kovind for India’s support for the rebuilding of Marawi City which was destroyed in a five-month battle to liberate the city from Islamic State-linked militants in 2017.

The President talked about India’s assistance in his bilateral meeting with Kovind and at the state banquet Friday night in Malacañang.

“Allow me, Excellency, to take this occasion to thank you, a great nation, for your unswerving support to my country,” Duterte said in his toast at the banquet. 

“Whether it be in rebuilding Marawi or international arena when our sovereignty is challenged, India was with the Philippines,” he added.

Kovind is in the Philippines for a five-day state visit.

Served at the banquet were lamb kaldereta and grouper in light curry cream. Among the post-dinner entertainment was an excerpt from “Rama Hari,” the dance musical based on the ancient Indian epic “Ramayana,” by Ballet Philippines.

Duterte said the destinies of the two nations are intimately linked because they belong to one region connected by the vast expanse of the Pacific and Indian Oceans.

He said the Philippines holds India in high regard, being the world’s largest democracy and one of the fastest growing economies today.

He also praised India for its firm commitment to international law and for being a responsible member of the international community.

“Today, we have strengthened our commitment to see more vibrant and multi-faceted ties between our countries and peoples. I have no doubt that we will succeed in this noble endeavor,” Duterte said.

In his remarks, President Kovind expressed his gratitude to the President for the warm reception accorded to him and the members of his delegation.