East China's Jiangxi Province and Bohol Province of the Philippines became sister provinces when the two governors signed an agreement in Nanchang on Monday to promote common development.

The agreement said the two sides would conduct exchanges and cooperation in trade, technology, culture, education and health, and promote common prosperity.

Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo said in a congratulatory letter that she hoped the agreement would be a bridge linking the two provinces and promote the common prosperity of both countries.

A 24-strong government delegation from Bohol also visited Nanchang, the provincial capital, and Jiujiang during their stay in Jiangxi.

Bohol, 556 miles south of Manila, has a long history and abundant natural and tourism resources. It has a long history of communication and trade with China.

Jiangxi, covering 166,900 square kilometers and with a population of 41.4 million, is famous for its tourist attractions and porcelain.

Source: Xinhua