The People’s Republic of China has pledged funds worth 100 million renminbi (PHP800 million) for the Philippines in support of the national government’s reconstruction efforts in areas devastated by Typhoon Odette.

The grant was announced by Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in a speech at the 5th Manila Forum for Philippines-China Relations on Monday.

“When the Philippines was hit by Typhoon Odette, President Xi Jinping promptly expressed his sympathies and support, and the Chinese government was among the first to provide emergency assistance,” Wang said.

He said the Philippines and China are neighbors and “partners through thick and thin” and hoped that the grant would help boost the country’s recovery.

“The Filipino people are strong and resilient. We believe that under the leadership of President Duterte and the Philippine government, people of the affected areas will rebuild their homes at an early date,” Wang said.

During the forum, Wang was joined by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and other Filipino and Chinese officials in support of a “stronger and reinforced” relationship and mutual development between the two countries. (PNA)