On her way to attend the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders’ Meeting, the United States of America Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton arrives in Manila today to affirm the partnership between her country and the Republic of the Philippines.

Secretary Clinton has a full schedule for the official visit. Included in her itinerary are visits to areas affected by Tropical Storm “Ondoy” and Typhoon “Pepeng.” These visits will re-emphasize the commitment of the US to provide assistance to help in the rehabilitation of the families affected by the disasters.

Secretary Clinton and President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo will exchange views on a number of global and regional issues. Bilateral concerns, that may include issues related to the Visiting Forces Agreement, are also expected to be taken up during the discussions between President Arroyo and Secretary Clinton.

President Arroyo is also expected to share with Secretary Clinton the latest on the peace process in Mindanao, an area in which the United States has poured much support in the past. Muslim leaders have urged Secretary Clinton to see for herself the gains of the Mindanao peace process with help from the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

Secretary Clinton is a veteran legislator, an acknowledged proponent of political reform in her country, and an advocate of multilateral cooperation for democracy and genuine development.

We welcome United States Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on her official visit to the Philippines. We wish her success in all her endeavors.

Mabuhay!