President Benigno Simeon Aquino III last night declared he is eager to forge stronger relations with the international community as he started his six years in office.

Aquino, in his short remarks at the inaugural reception in Malacañang, thanked the diplomatic community and other special guests for adding “luster and meaning” to his assumption to power.

“Thank you all for your presence today. It has added luster and of course more meaning for today’s transfer of power. We look forward to developing better stronger and mutually beneficial relationships with the entire community,” he said.

Aquino, who took his oath as the country’s 15th President early in the day, arrived at the Rizal Hall at 7 p.m. to join foreign dignitaries, senior government officials, political and business allies for his inaugural ball.

Timor Leste President José Ramos-Horta was the only foreign leader who attended the affair.

The inaugural reception took place a few hours before the street party at the Quezon Memorial Circle, where Aquino was expected to attend as well.