MANILA, Philippines – Stressing “common values” such as promoting human rights, German Chancellor Angela Merkel congratulated Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte as the Philippines’ president-elect.

The German embassy in Manila on Tuesday, May 31, said Merkel told Duterte “that cooperation between Germany and the Philippines is characterized by friendship and trust based on common values.”

“That includes our shared conviction that democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and inclusive economic growth are indispensable for sustainable development,” Merkel said.

Merkel also “hoped that the peace process in Mindanao would soon lead to a lasting peace settlement,” the German embassy said.

The German Chancellor also remained optimistic that the Philippines and Germany will deepen their ties.

Other world leaders have already congratulated Duterte, who was proclaimed as president-elect on Monday, May 30.

On Monday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said Chinese President Xi Jinping already wrote Duterte. Xi said he hopes the Philippines and China will “get bilateral relations back on the track of sound development.”

On May 17, US Preisdent Barack Obama also congratulated Duterte, highlighting “shared commitments to democracy, human rights, rule of law, and inclusive economic growth.” – Rappler.com