The relationship between China and the Philippines had been strained due to a recent maritime dispute in the South China Sea.

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin said on Thursday that bilateral ties and friendship have now been fully restored. The two countries are now ready to begin a new stage of cooperation.
 
He said:" The visit paid by President Duterte and the talks between the two leaders have great significance, and have a four-fold meaning.

"First, it signifies the friendship between both countries has been fully restored. Secondly, it also means that cooperation between both countries will now enter a new phase.

"Thirdly, China and the Philippines will properly handle the South China Sea issue, opening a new page and returning to negotiations and dialogue. Lastly this signifies that traditional friendly ties have been fully restored."