BEIJING, May 15 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinpingon Monday called on China and the Philippinesto align their development strategies in order to benefit people from both countries.

In his meeting with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, Xi said he and the Chinese government attach great importance to China-Philippines ties and are willing to work together to dovetail the two countries' development strategies.

Duterte also highlighted the need to strengthen bilateral ties between the Philippines and China.

Noting that the two countries have resumed regular dialogues as well as consultations between foreign ministries, Duterte said the two countries should make full use of such consultation mechanisms.

He expressed the hope that the maritime consultation and dialogue mechanism between the Philippines and China could generate positive outcomes.