Richard Myers, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the US Armed Forces, arrived the Philippines for a two-day visit on Friday.
National Security Adviser Roilo Golez told reporters that Myers will meet with Philippine defense and security officials to assess the progress of the two ongoing joint exercises between the Philippine and US troops and to discuss ways for stronger military cooperation between the two countries.
"First, we will assess the current cooperation and we will find out how can we further enhance the cooperation," Golez said.
He said Myers is also to thank President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo for the Philippines' strong stance against terrorism and its support for the international coalition against terrorist groups.
Myers' visit to the Philippines is the first leg of his tour in the Asia Pacific region. After the Philippines, he will visit Japan and South Korea.
(Xinhua News Agency April 27, 2002)
