RP to rely on neighbors

RP to rely on neighbors

SUBIC BAY, Philippines (DPA): Breaking away from vestiges of a
Western colonial past, the Philippines will rely more on renewed
ties with Southeast Asian neighbors for economic progress,
President Fidel Ramos said yesterday.

"More and more, the Philippines' destiny lies in its relations
with its neighbors in Southeast Asia," Ramos said upon arrival
from a five-day official trip to Hong Kong, Laos and Myanmar, his
30th foreign trip since assuming the presidency in 1992.

"Our security hinges in large measure on our solidarity with
them. Our economic progress is enhanced by the integration of
Southeast Asia's economies," he added.

But Ramos stressed that economic solidarity and regional
integration can only be achieved through constant contact and
interaction not only of governments but of citizens as well.