China and the Philippines vowed yesterday in a joint communique to deepen bilateral exchanges in the political, cultural, judicial and military fields, as Philippine President Benigno Aquino wrapped up meetings with top Chinese leaders on his first state visit.
Both sides also reiterated their pledges that maritime disputes would not affect bilateral ties.
The communique issued by President Hu Jintao and Aquino, also said both sides would discuss the establishment of a nautical highway that would 'infuse new energy' into bilateral economic development - a move analysts said was conducive to easing tensions over territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
Aquino stressed when meeting National People's Congress Standing Committee chairman Wu Bangguo and Premier Wen Jiabao that he was committed to enhancing ties with China.
Both sides gave a positive assessment to the state visit, with Aquino saying he was thankful for the support of the Chinese, who agreed to allocate towards co-operation with the Philippines a 'substantial portion' of funding for investment between China and members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
'We can go home confident that we will be bringing a lot of good news for our people,' he told Wu.
Both sides said they agreed not to let tensions in the South China Sea, which have been escalating in recent months, affect the broader picture of friendship and co-operation.