Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 14) — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he discussed human rights issues with President Rodrigo Duterte at Canada's summit with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Tuesday.

"Canada has earned a reputation for being able to have frank, firm discussions around rule of law and human rights with partners around the world. It's very much what people expect of Canada. It comes as no surprise that we bring it up. I will always bring that up," Trudeau told reporters in a media briefing after the summit.

The Canadian Prime Minister described how the meeting went.

"I mentioned human rights, rule of law, specifically extrajudicial killings, as an issue that Canada is concerned with," Trudeau said.

"The President was receptive to my comments. It was throughout a very cordial and positive exchange," he said.

Trudeau added Canada offered assistance to address human rights issues in the country.

Also read: Canada wants in on East Asia Summit

Various local and international groups as well as some world leaders have criticized the country for supposed rights violations. They expressed concern over the number of killing in the government's drug war.

Government data indicate 3,967 were killed in anti-drug operations as of October 2017. But human rights groups said the number is around 13,000.

On Monday, the White House said human rights was also discussed in Duterte's talks with U.S. President Donald Trump.

However, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the issue was not raised.

Also read: Malacañang, White House release conflicting statements on human rights discussion