Russia committed to cooperation with Philippines in war on terror - Lavrov

MOSCOW, May 25. /TASS/. Russia is fully committed to the agreements with the Philippines on stepping up cooperation in the fight against terrorism, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said at a meeting with Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano on Thursday. Two days ago, Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with the Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte in the Kremlin. However, Duterte had to cut short his visit to Russia over terrorist attacks in the country’s southern areas. "I would like to once again confirm our solidarity with the leadership of the Philippines and the Philippine people, and once again convey the words of sympathy and condolences to the relatives and friends of the victims," Lavrov said. "I confirm our full commitment to the agreements on enhancing cooperation in the fight against terrorism, drug trafficking and organized crime," Russia’s top diplomat stressed. Duterte declared martial law on the island of Mindanao on May 23 following clashes between government forces and a group affiliated with the Islamic State (outlawed in Russia). A government operation is underway against fighters of the Maute Group. Read more