Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo left here Tuesday afternoon for China in her last foreign trip as state president to strengthen bilateral relations.

She will lead the county's participation to attend the Philippine Day at the 2010 Shanghai World Expo. Aside from her attendance to the World Expo and the anniversary celebrations, Arroyo will meet with Yu Zhengsheng, secretary of the Shanghai Committee of the Chinese Communist Party, Deputy Presidential Spokesman Gary Olivar said.

Arroyo, who was accorded departure honors at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport before leaving.

Arroyo said she is primarily flying to Shanghai to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the Philippines and China, which falls on June 9.

Press Undersecretary and Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Rogelio Peyuan said the President, who is expected to arrive in at around 09:00 p.m. local time, will visit the Philippines' pavilion at the World Expo on June 9 which would showcase the best of the country's "culture and accomplishments of the administration in the tourism and economic sectors."

"This will serve as a fitting tribute to the best that is Filipino..Our participation will also serve as a confirmation of our close ties with China which has been one of our biggest trading partners over the years,"he said, citing that Arroyo will also attend the celebration of the 35th anniversary of forging Philippine-China diplomatic ties before returning to Manila on June 9.

A book entitled "A Selection of Folk Tales from the Philippines for the Young Chinese Reader"- intended to increase the awareness of the Philippines and the Filipinos among Chinese children - will also be launched during Arroyo's visit.

"The book is a selection of 10 illustrated Philippine folk tales, translated into Chinese. This is a simple project but profoundly significant in increasing the understanding of the Philippines and the Filipinos among Chinese children.

Gary Olivar said that Arroyo will have a "very light" schedule during the visit which is primarily intended to show the Philippines' support for the Shanghai World Expo and the Chinese government in general and further strengthen the ties between the two countries.

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