The House of Representatives adopted on Monday a resolution honoring outgoing Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua for his “extraordinary” contributions to fostering strong Philippine-China bilateral relations.

House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano filed House Resolution 474 along with Majority Leader Martin Romualdez, Minority Leader Benny Abante Jr., and Committee on Foreign Affairs chairperson Ann Hofer which also confers the Congressional Medal of Achievement to Zhao.

In the resolution, it said that Zhao — in performing his duties as Chinese envoy — played a significant role for the Chinese and Philippine governments “to resolve their differences in a friendly manner,” which led to the “golden age of Philippines-China bilateral relations.”

Since Zhao was sworn in as Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines on 8 April 2014, China has become the country’s top trading partner, as well as the fourth largest export market and top import supplier in 2018.

The resolution also noted that Chinese tourist arrivals in the country likewise increased during Zhao’s term, from 394,951 in 2015 to 1.26 million in 2019.

Moreover, at least 90 bilateral agreements have been signed between China and the Philippines with Zhao as ambassador, which ranged from the economic, political, cultural, humanitarian and security aspects.

“While there may be real and difficult issues remaining between the Philippines and China, through the work and contribution of Ambassador Jianhua, the Philippine government is certain that the lines of communication between the Philippines and China shall always remain open to resolve peacefully any difference between our countries and peoples,” said the resolution.

Zhao himself was present at the House when the resolution was adopted as he greeted and shook hands with some members of the chamber.

Huang Xilian, China’s envoy to the Association of South East Asian Nations, will replace Zhao from his position, according to diplomatic sources.