French president arrives in Malacañang for Aquino meeting

MANILA, Philippines - French President Francois Hollande is now in Malacañang for an expanded bilateral meeting with President Benigno Aquino III.

Hollande arrived at the Palace grounds around 4:50 p.m. and was welcomed by Aquino and several Cabinet officials.

The presidents are expected to exchange views on global and regional issues like climate change and terrorism, such as what happened involving Charlie Hebdo in Paris that claimed the lives of 20 people.

They will also discuss various aspects of the bilateral relations of the Philippines and France on economy and trade. France is the Philippines' second biggest trading partner in Europe.

Following their meeting, Aquino and Hollande will witness the signing of cooperation agreements in the areas of development, tourism, health and academic exchanges.

The two leaders will issue a joint press statement and will take questions from media.

Hollande's meeting with Aquino is also highlighted by the launch of the Manila call to action on climate change at the Palace grounds.

The Palace said earlier that Hollande is expected to seek Aquino's support on the issue of climate change in light of preparations being made for the 21st Conference of Parties in Paris in December this year.

French ambassador to Manila Nicolas Hulot said Hollande sees his visit to give a human face to climate change, as the Philippines bears the brunt of dozens of deadly storms such as Typhoon Yolanda.

On Friday, Hollande will visit Guiuan, Samar, one of the areas most devastated by Yolanda in 2013.

Hollande arrived in Manila on Tuesday morning and was accompanied by French officials, businessmen and representatives from various French higher education institutions.

His first trip to the Philippines was also joined by a dozen personalities well-known for their environmental advocacy, such as Jeremy Irons, Marion Cotillard and high officials from various international organizations.