By Kristian Javier
MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte has said that he is open to joint military exercises with Russia, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said on Thursday.
Duterte had expressed his interest in working with both China and Russia "to make this world peaceful."
However, he has also said that he is not yet ready for new military alliances even as he announced that the Philippines will follow an "independent foreign policy" away from longtime ally the US.
"As far as we understand it, he was referencing permanent stay [by foreign troops]," Abella said during a press briefing at Malacañang.
He added that joint exercises may be something the Philippine government will consider.
Meanwhile, Abella said that the goodwill visit by the Russian Navy may contribute to strengthening the friendship with the Philippine Navy.
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