Manila, June 4 -- The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has reaffirmed its renewed focus on strengthening ties with African states as it celebrated Africa Day on Wednesday.

In a recorded message at a reception in Pasay City, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said Manila envisions a relationship between the Philippines and African states that "transcends traditional paradigms."

Manila, he said, wants a partnership of "equals" where "Philippine archipelagic experience complements African continental perspectives and where shared commitment to international law and development strengthens and creates new models of international cooperation."

Manalo had announced last year that the DFA is taking a foreign policy thrust towards hav...