PRESIDENT Rodrigo R. Duterte will explore trade and investment opportunities when he visits Russia next month, according to the Foreign Affairs department.

The president will sign cooperation agreements in the areas of research, health and culture during his second visit to Moscow from Oct. 1 to 5, Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Ma. Amelita C. Aquino told reporters at the presidential palace on Friday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin had invited Mr. Duterte, she said.

Mr. Duterte will hold a bilateral meeting with his Russian counterpart to discuss “how both sides can further enhance and expand our cooperation in various areas,” she said.

The two leaders will also witness the signing of several bilateral agreements covering culture, health and basic research.

Mr. Duterte will visit the cities of Sochi and Moscow. He will attend a forum in Sochi on Oct. 3 along with Mr. Putin, Ms. Aquino said.

In Moscow, the president will attend a business Forum to promote trade and investment opportunities between the two countries. It will also serve as a venue for networking between Russian and Filipino businessmen, according to Ms. Aquino.

Mr. Duterte is also scheduled to meet with the Filipino community there.

Mr. Duterte first visited Russia in May 2017 but this was cut short after terrorists attacked Marawi City in southern Philippines.

His meeting with Mr. Putin will be the fourth time, Ms. Aquino said. — Arjay L. Balinbin

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR