Xinhua - English

CEBU, Philippines, Jan. 11 (Xinhua) -- Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said Thursday the Philippines is privileged to take part in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) quest for lasting peace and economic prosperity asit hosts the 12th ASEAN Summit now underway in Cebu.

The President made the statement as she welcomed the leaders of the 10 member states of the ASEAN and its six dialogue partners --China, Japan and Republic of Korea, together with Australia, New Zealand and India.

She said Filipinos should take pride that in the country's hosting of the Cebu Summit.

She said the ASEAN leaders will work on a framework for the future of the region, a "future that will bring stability and peace and comfort to the disaster stricken and the sick, a safer environment, cheaper and more abundant energy, food for the poor and most of all, friendships among peoples that will endure into this century."

Arroyo described the Cebu summits as the convergence of "all colors and creeds, peoples of diverse origins and social station" and the goal of the ASEAN leaders is to create a borderless community, a "One Caring and Sharing Community," the theme of the 12th ASEAN Summit.

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