Invited by Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, A delegation of Chinese secondary school students from Sichuan earthquake-hit area arrived at Manila International Airport on January 11, 2009, for their weeklong rehabilitation visit to the Philippines.

 

Hon. Deng Xijun, the charge d'affaires of Chinese Embassy in the Philippines, Hon. Shi Gongqi, Special Envoy of President Arroyo and Hon.Ebdalin, Vice secretary of DFA greeted the delegation at the airport.

President Arroyo will give an interview to the delegation during their visit to the Philippines. The 100 children aged 11 to 16, who came from earthquake-stricken area in Sichuan Provence, plan to visit schools, museums and interacted with local students in Manila. They will also pay a visit to Bohol, a central province of the Philippines. Accompanying them are the teachers, team doctors, as well as the officials from Education Ministry of China and Department of Education of Sichuan Province.

China and the Philippines enjoy traditional friendly relationship. Bilateral relations have developed steadily since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1975. The invitation fully demonstrates the friendship of the Philippine Government and people to the Chinese people. This visit will definitely enhance the mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples, especially among young people, enrich the two countries' friendly cooperation and promote in-depth development of bilateral relations.