Russian navy ships arrive in Manila for goodwill visit

World Today

Philippines RussiaRussia’s Ambassador to the Philippines Igor A. Khovaev, left seated, answers questions from reporters beside Russian Rear Adm. Eduard Mikhailov, Deputy Commander of Flotilla of Pacific Fleet of Russia, during a press conference on board the Russian Navy vessel Admiral Tributs, a large anti-submarine ship, at Manila’s pier, Philippines on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2017. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

Russian naval ships are in Manila for a goodwill visit.

This is only the third time the Russian Navy has made a port call in the Philippine capital.

But, it comes at a time when both the Philippines and Russia are seeking to strengthen regional ties.

CGTN’s Barnaby Lo reports. Follow Barnaby Lo ‏on Twitter @barnabychuck

A Russian anti-submarine vessel is docked in Manila.

But it’s not the first time a Russian naval vessel has made a port call here; it’s the third time.

In the past, Russian port calls have been very low key. This time around, they’ve opened this ship for public viewing.

There are Filipino civilians on board.

Russia’s Ambassador to the Philippines Igor Khovaev even held a press conference here on Wednesday, where he signified Russia’s interest in deepening ties.

Ambassador Khovaev also said he hopes businessmen from Russia and the Philippines can learn more about each other’s countries to maximize the potential of trade between both countries.

In the meantime, however, Russia is ready to do business with the Philippines in terms of military hardware.

The Russian ambassador kept emphasizing that although Russia and the Philippines aren’t seeking a military alliance, they hope to strengthen their military cooperation based on common threats like terrorism and illegal drugs as well as shared needs and interests.