The President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte will start his state visit to China on Tuesday. Spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, Hua Chunying, says China expects the visit to improve ties and enhance cooperation.

“We hope President Duterte’s visit can enhance political trust between the two countries, deepen cooperation and develop our traditional friendship. We hope both sides can handle differences through dialogue and bring our strategic partnership back on track to healthy and stable development,” Hua said.

Speaking about the South China Sea issue, Hua said that China’s door for negotiation has always been open to the Philippines. She said China is willing to work with all parties in the South China Sea to maintain peace and stability.

Hua referenced Duterte’s anti-drugs campaign and moves to uphold an independent foreign policy and said that China believes he can find a development path suitable for his country.