China's chief legislator, Wu Bangguo, Saturday told Philippine
President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo that the two countries' relations
are "at an historic high" and vowed to boost cooperation.
In a meeting with Arroyo here Saturday, Wu said bilateral
cooperation in trade, agriculture and infrastructure construction
has boomed increasing political trust and reinforcing strategic
cooperation.
Wu expressed appreciation for the Philippine government's
understanding and support for China on the Taiwan issue.
Wu said cooperation between China, the Philippines and Vietnam
in the South China Sea is conducive to the peace, stability and
development in the region and China would continue to continue to
promote the common exploration project among the three
countries.
Wu said China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations
(ASEAN) have expanded mutual trust, communication and exchanges and
trade cooperation since establishing a dialogue system 16 years
ago.
The Philippines is a very important member of ASEAN and China
would help develop bilateral ties based on the principles of
equality, mutual trust and mutual benefit.
Arroyo said bilateral relations are "at a golden age" of
development, adding bilateral cooperation in the South China Sea
has entered into the second phase.
China is a friend of the Philippines and other ASEAN countries,
said Arroyo, whose country holds the rotating ASEAN presidency. The
Philippines would develop reciprocal cooperation in fields like
politics, security, trade and resources.
She expressed her appreciation to the active role China has
played in addressing international and regional issues.
Arriving early on Saturday, Arroyo is attending the Boao Forum
for Asia (BFA) annual meeting 2007. She also delivered a keynote
speech at the opening ceremony of the forum Saturday morning.
The BFA annual conference brings together senior government
officials, business leaders and academics to discuss Asian issues
and affairs.
(Xinhua News Agency April 21, 2007)