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US Diplomat in Philippines to Discuss Duterte's Comments

by VOA News

   The most senior U.S. diplomat for Asia is in the Philippines days after
   President Rodrigo Duterte, during a visit to China, said he intended to
   sever ties with the U.S.

   Daniel Russel plans to meet Monday with Philippine Foreign Affairs
   Secretary Perfecto Yasay in an attempt to get some clarification of
   Duterte's intentions.

   On Saturday, President Duterte backpedaled a bit on his comments in
   Beijing, saying he is not actually cutting ties with the U.S. because
   "It's in the best interest of my country that we maintain that
   relationship."

   The U.S. embassy in Manila said the Philippine president's comments
   have created "unnecessary uncertainty."

   After the Philippines, Russel visits Thailand where he will convey his
   condolences on the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and meet with Thai
   officials to discuss bilateral relations and regional issues.

   U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs
   Russel will then head to Cambodia to meet with government and
   opposition party officials and civil society organizations.