Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman, Geng Shuang, has emphasized Beijing's cordial ties with the Philippines. His remarks come ahead of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's state visit to China next week. 

"We have reiterated that the Philippines is China's friend and neighbour, and the two countries enjoy a long-standing friendship. The relationship between China and the Philippines lives up to expectations and meets the trend of the regional development. China pays attention to the relationship with the Philippines and is willing to work to bring ties back on track to sound, steady and sustainable development," he said.

Geng said that Duterte will participate in anti-drugs talks and that both countries are in close commuinication on the subject. The anti-narcotics departments of China and the Philippines have already begun to explore cooperation, something which China is looking to strengthen.