For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
February 3, 2003

President Announces State Visit of Phillippine President
State Visit by President Macapagal-Arroyo of the Philippines

President Bush is pleased to announce that he will host Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of the Philippines for a State Visit on April 2. The United States and the Philippines are treaty allies bound by shared history, shared values, and a shared commitment to a peaceful and prosperous 21st century.

President Bush looks forward to discussing how the United States and the Philippines can further strengthen bilateral relations, including cooperation in the war against terror. He also looks forward to discussing how the United States can best support President Macapagal-Arroyo's efforts to strengthen the rule of law, advance economic reform, and alleviate poverty in the Philippines.

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