Ambassador Zhao Jianhua offered effusive praise for Duterte in a speech at an embassy reception late yesterday, saying China "firmly supports" his anti-drugs campaign that has prompted Western condemnation of alleged extrajudicial killings.
Duterte has rejected the criticism, including by long-time security ally the United States, and said he would seek closer economic ties with China and Russia.
"The clouds are fading away. The sun is rising over the horizon and will shine beautifully on the new chapter of bilateral relations," Zhao said according to a copy of the speech released by the mission today.
This was in stark contrast to fraught ties under Duterte's predecessor Benigno Aquino, whose government lodged a case at an international tribunal in 2013 seeking to outlaw Beijing's territorial claims over most of the South China Sea.
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In July the tribunal rejected most of China's claims as well as its extensive island-building in disputed waters.
Duterte has however stressed he would not risk war by enforcing the ruling, preferring quiet diplomacy to persuade China to abide by the verdict.
Duterte has responded with abusive comments against critics of his war on crime.
Many market analysts said the market was spooked by the breakdown in the rule of law after Duterte's anti-drug crackdown left more than 3,700 people dead. Rights groups say some of them had been summarily executed.
"The Chinese side fully understands and firmly supports the Duterte administration's policy that (prioritises) the fight against drug crimes," said Zhao on Tuesday, adding China would assist in the drug war.
The Philippines, a former American colony, had until Duterte been one of the United States' oldest allies in Asia.
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