Two of the world’s most powerful leaders have called incoming Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.
US President Barack Obama and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have congratulated Duterte for his victory in the May 9 elections in the Philippines.
Duterte said that Trudeau called him on May 24.
The nine-minute call took place at around 3:30 pm on that day, Duterte said during a press conference May 26.
The Davao City mayor called the conversation a “civil” one.
He said Trudeau brought up “universal declaration of human rights.”
“I’m following it. I said that we are partners, may we remain partners for all time,” said Duterte.
He also commended Trudeau for the protection Filipino workers receive while working in Canada.
“I am aware there are Filipinos, a lot of them, working there. I am happy that they have found protection even in the labor laws,” said Duterte.
He also apologized to Trudeau for the death of Canadian national John Ridsdel at the hands of the Abu Sayyaf.
“‘Please accept my apologies for the incident that resulted in the killing of your national and we will try our very best to make sure nothing of the sort will happen again.'”
Earlier, he received a phone call from Obama of the U.S., and they discussed their stand on the South China Sea territory dispute.