BEIJING - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday extended condolences to his Philippine counterpart Rodrigo Duterte over Typhoon Mangkhut that has hit the Philippines, killing some 65 people.

In his message to Duterte, Xi said the typhoon has caused severe casualties and loss of properties in the Philippines. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, and in his own name, Xi mourned the victims and expressed sympathy to those injured, the bereaved families and the people in the affected area.

Xi said that China and the Philippines are friendly neighbors, and the Chinese people shared the sadness of the Philippine people over their sufferings, and are willing to help as much as possible.

Xi added that he believed that under the leadership of President Duterte and the Philippine government, the Philippine people will quickly overcome the disaster and rebuild their homeland.