The following is the translation of the condolence message from H.E. President Hu Jintao of the People's Republic of China to H.E. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on the demise of former Philippine President Corazon C. Aquino:

Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal Arroyo

President

The Republic of the Philippines

Manila

Beijing, 1 August

Your Excellency,

I have learned with deep sadness of the shocking demise of H.E. Corazon C. Aquino, former President of the Republic of the Philippines.

Madame Aquino is an outstanding leader of the Philippines and a good friend of the Chinese people. During her presidency, she made significant contributions to the development and prosperity of the Philippines and the growth of China-Philippine relations. On behalf of the Government of the People's Republic of China, the Chinese people and on my own behalf, I would like to extend to Your Excellency and, through you, to Madame Aquino's family members my deepest condolences and sincerest sympathy.

****** ****** ******

1 August 2009