Philippine president appreciates good relations with China

Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Friday expressed appreciation of the good relations between China and the Philippines, citing China's role in regional security and economic security.

The United States, Japan and China will continue to be a determining factor in regional security and economic security in Asia, Arroyo said at "The President's Night" at the Manila Overseas Press Club while answering questions from press.

"And China, therefore, represents one of the most important neighbors for the Philippines, apart from having been an economic power in the world, globally," Arroyo said.

She said the Philippines appreciates the very good relations with China. "Since China joined the World Trade Organization, we have enjoyed a very robust increase in our exports, we have enjoyed a surplus in our bilateral trade with China."

"We have enjoyed also a tremendous amount of assistance of China, especially for agricultural modernization, our hybrid rice," she added.

Arroyo also cited the North Rail project, which China is financing, as one of the most important projects she ought to carry out in her full six-year term to decongest Metro Manila.

Arroyo said the relationship between China and the Philippines is very fruitful economically, in addition to the old political and cultural ties the Philippines has been enjoying in decades.

Arroyo also reiterated the "One China" policy in handling affairs between China and China's Taiwan province.

During the speech at the press club, Arroyo also reiterated that she has taken the responsibility, and has no apologies for the decision of the troops pullout from Iraq, insisting national interest at first.

She added that there are other, perhaps even more meaningful, ways to sustain and strengthen the strategic relationship between the Philippines and the United States, insisting the two countries should always work to keep the relationship firm in propelling the common commitment to fighting terrorism domestically, regionally and worldwide.

The United States has announced that the Philippines was excluded from the US-led "coalition of the willing" due to its decision to pullout its humanitarian contingent to save Filipino hostage Angelo de la Cruz last month.