Russia Wants to Strengthen Military Ties with the Philippines

According to Putin, tackling terrorism is the primary challenge both countries are facing. The Russian President met with his Philippine counterpart Rodrigo Duterte on the sidelines of the APEC summit in Vietnam

Challenging news for the Israeli defense industries: Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country is ready to step up military-technical cooperation with the Philippines.

President Putin held a meeting with his Philippine counterpart Rodrigo Duterte on the sidelines of the APEC summit in Vietnam, TASS reported.

"I remember you being forced to cut short your visit to Russia due to terrorist attacks in your country, and I remember you telling me that you have to establish order, to attack those terrorists," Putin said to Duterte. "I would like to congratulate you on having done this," he added.

According to Putin, tackling terrorism is one of the main challenges for both countries. TASS also reported that Russia and the Philippines recently signed a contract for the delivery of grenade launchers.