Putin looks forward to attend APEC meet in Manila - Russian exec

MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III has sent his official invitation to Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting (AELM) in Manila next month.

Senate President Franklin Drilon said he handed to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov the invitation letter of Aquino to Putin.

Drilon, who is in Russia to address its parliament, said that Putin will be warmly welcomed in the Philippines.

Lavrov, on the other hand, expressed appreciation for Aquino's invitation and said that Putin is looking forward to visiting Manila in November.

The Philippines is this year's host of APEC meetings including the AELM on November 18 and 19.

The meeting, which will be held in Metro Manila, is expected to be attended by the heads of state of the 21 member economies of the APEC.

Last month, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said the country's hosting of APEC meetings is "going well" so far.

She also assured that the government continues to prepare for the AELM.

As for the heads of state who will attend the big event next month, Valte said there is already a "good number of confirmations." - Louis Bacani