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14 June 2006 - Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo sent her warm congratulations to the new President of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, H.E. Choummaly Sayasone.
In her letter sent through Philippine Ambassador to Laos Elizabeth P. Buensuceso, President Arroyo expressed her confidence that President Choummaly's leadership will provide guidance and direction to the Lao government as he works resolutely for the genuine development of his people.
She expressed her appreciation and hope in maintaining the two countries' close collaboration in various areas of cooperation for the mutual benefit of their peoples. President Arroyo also wished President Choummaly continued good health and success as he leads the Lao people towards greater progress and stability.
President Arroyo also took the opportunity to extend an invitation to President Choummaly and his delegation to the 12th ASEAN Summit and 2nd East Asian Summit which the Philippines will host in Cebu in December 2006. She added that the Philippines is eager to see Laos and their brothers in the region take on an even more active role in the realisation of a harmonious and thriving ASEAN community.
President Arroyo's message was published in Lao PDR's leading English language daily, the Vientiane Times.
The Philippines and Laos are celebrating this year the 51st Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. END
/epa