President Rodrigo Duterte’s neutral attitude on the invasion of Ukraine was described as “balanced and wise” by Russia’s envoy to the Philippines on Monday, who said that connections between Manila and Moscow may still be improved despite worldwide sanctions against his nation.

On February 28, the Philippines voted in favor of a UN General Assembly resolution denouncing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but Duterte declared in public remarks last week that he would remain neutral because of his friendship with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

 “I’d like to thank the Philippine side, and especially President Duterte, for his assessment and his pronouncements regarding my country and his personal relations with my president.” Russian Ambassador Marat Pavlov said during a news conference on Monday.

He described it as a “very balanced and smart attitude.”

Despite worldwide sanctions on Russia, Pavlov believes the Philippines and Russia may still maintain regular diplomatic and trade relations, citing “mutual beneficial interaction in many fields.” as an example.