Mega, Arroyo vow to work as 'sisters'

MANILA (JP): Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri and Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo promised here on Tuesday to be like sisters to each other and continue to provide mutual support in leading their troubled countries.

In a joint press statement at Malacanang Palace, the two Presidents agreed to continue the friendship of their fathers, who were former presidents of the respective countries, by enhancing bilateral ties.

"We agreed that since our fathers, President Sukarno and President Macapagal, were like brothers, we should also be like sisters supporting each other in finding solutions to the problems that we inherited in our respective countries," Gloria said.

Megawati and Arroyo share similar backgrounds. They were both president's daughters and were both former vice presidents who played a pivotal role in ousting the presidents of their respective countries and then became president.

Referring to Megawati as "the champion of democracy", Gloria thanked the Indonesian government for facilitating the peace agreement between the Philippine government and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

"We will reminisce the common struggle to share the fight against poverty, oppression and injustice," Gloria said.

Megawati said in her statement that Indonesia would work closely with the Philippines, especially within the framework of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

"The years ahead will pose new challenges for ASEAN. Indonesia will continue to work closely with the Philippines to contribute to the stability and well-being of ASEAN," Megawati said.

"We will also ensure that ASEAN plays an important role in the region and in international fora such as APEC, ASEM and WTO," the Indonesian President continued.

Megawati was welcomed at Villamor airport by Vice President and Foreign Minister Teofisto T. Guingona before proceeding to Malacanang Palace to meet Arroyo.

The two leaders held bilateral talks at the state dining room at the Palace.

The Philippines is the first stop in Megawati's trip to ASEAN countries; her first official visit to foreign countries as President. Megawati will visit Vietnam on Wednesday. (dja)