Mega, Arroyo vow to work as 'sisters'

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)