U.S. Welcomes Transfer of Power in PhilippinesThe United States Monday welcomed the transfer of power in the Philippines, saying that it looked forward to working with President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo."The United States and the Philippines are longtime allies, with robust political, economic and cultural ties, buttressed by the millions of Americans of Philippine descent who are in the United States," State Department spokesman Richard Boucher said. He said, "President Arroyo has stated that economic reform, enhancing transparency and strengthening the rule of law will be among her most important priorities. We will support the new president in her efforts to achieve those worthy objectives." Arroyo, formerly vice president, replaced Joseph Estrada as president of the Philippines at the weekend. |
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