President Duterte cites Russian Ambassador Khovaev’s efforts to strengthen PH-Russia relations
MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte extended his sincere appreciation to outgoing Russian Ambassador Igor A. Khovaev for the latter’s successful tour of duty in the Philippines.
The Russian envoy paid his farewell call yesterday at Malacañang Palace. Ambassador Khovaev was cited for his role in helping redefine and further strengthen Philippines-Russia relations according to the national leadership’s independent foreign policy.
President Duterte conferred on Ambassador Khovaev the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu (Grand Cross), Gold Distinction.
In a statement released by the Office of the President, it was learned during the Ambassador’s tenure and from President Duterte’s first visit to Russia in May 2017, bilateral engagement has broadened and deepened. Agreements were signed and consultative mechanisms were established specifically in areas of defense and security, trade and economic cooperation, science and technology, and health.
The country’s chief executive said Ambassador Khovaev’s role in facilitating confidence-building activities between Philippine and Russian defense establishments with the exchange of naval visits ad training of law enforcement personnel and other joint activities.
During his farewell call, Ambassador Khovaev said Russia remains committed to build an ensuring partnership with the Philippines over the long term. He identified the promising areas of growth, including trade and investment, defense and security and public health specifically in the common battle against the COVID-19 pandemic.
The diplomat welcomed the upward trajectory of Philippines-Russia cooperation under President Duterte’s independent foreign policy. He also expressed his thanks to the President for the positive momentum of Philippines-Russia relations with the unprecedented multiple meetings between President Duterte and Russian President Vladimir Putin. (Melo M. Acuña)
President Rodrigo Duterte pins the decoration on outgoing Russian Ambassador Igor A. Khovaev during the former's farewell call yesterday. The Russian envoy was cited for his outstanding efforts to further strengthen PH-Russia relations. (Malacanang Photos)