Visiting Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo got an honorary doctorate from Tsinghua University Tuesday.

The doctorate was awarded in honor of the President's contribution to a better relationship between China and Philippines, as well as for her academic achievements and contribution to public service, said the University President Wang Dazhong.

After the ceremony, Arroyo spoke on the Philippines' foreign policy and Philippines-China relations, saying "the Philippines desires a healthy, comprehensive, long-term relationship with China", and opportunities for cooperation between the two countries are "virtually limitless".

Arroyo began her state visit to China on October 29 as guest of Chinese President Jiang Zemin.

(People's Daily October 31, 2001)