PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte and United States (US) Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are expected to discuss terrorism and security issues among others during the latter's two-day trip to Manila on February 28 to March 1.
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte and Pompeo are expected to tackle issues" that are "mutually beneficial" to the Philippines and the US.
"I'm sure there will be talks between their government and our government with respect to our relations," the Palace official told Palace reporters.
"Any subject matter that is mutually beneficial to both countries will be discussed or any matter for the Secretary to raise," he added.
Pressed about the agenda of the two leaders' meeting, Panelo said it would cover "mutual concerns" such as security and terrorism, among others.
Pompeo's visit to the Philippines comes at a time when the Trump administration is reaching out to China to end the trade war between Washington ang Beijing.
It also comes as Duterte continues to mend relations with China despite Manila and Beijing's long-standing disputes over the resource-rich South China Sea.
Asked if the sea disputes would be discussed, Panelo said it would depend on whether Pompeo would raise the issue.
"Eh kung i-raise ba 'yun ni Secretary of State, eh 'di mababangit 'yun (If the Secretary of State would raise it, then it would be tackled)," the Palace official added. (VoxPop Philippines)
