Outgoing envoy cited for boosting Philippines-Russia relations

MANILA, Philippines ? President Duterte has cited the role of outgoing Russian Ambassador Igor Khovaev in reinvigorating bilateral relations.

During a farewell call at Malacañang last Wednesday, Duterte also congratulated Khovaev for a successful tour of duty in the Philippines.

“The President lauded Ambassador Khovaev for his key role in helping redefine and reinvigorate Philippines-Russia relations in line with the administration’s independent foreign policy thrust,” presidential protocol officer, Undersecretary Robert Borje said yesterday.

Malacañang said Duterte conferred on Khovaev the Order of Sikatuna, with the rank of Datu (Grand Cross), Gold Distinction.

Khovaev significantly played a role on the President’s first visit to Russia in May 2017, where bilateral engagement “broadened and deepened,” Borje said in a statement.

During his tenure, the Philippines and Russia signed agreements in the areas of defense and security, trade and economic cooperation, science and technology, and health.

In his brief speech, Duterte particularly noted Khovaev’s role in facilitating confidence-building activities between Philippine and Russian defense establishments through exchange of goodwill naval visits and training of Philippine law enforcement personnel, among other joint activities.

For his part, Khovaev reiterated Russia’s commitment to build an enduring partnership with the Philippines over the long term. He also identified promising areas of growth, including in trade and investment, defense and security and public health, particularly in the common fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

The ambassador welcomed the upward trajectory of Philippines-Russia cooperation under Duterte’s independent foreign policy. Khovaev thanked the President for the positive momentum of Philippines-Russia relations capped by unprecedented multiple meetings between Duterte and President Vladimir Putin.