Former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was able to revisit Guangzhou as she joined a youth delegation taking a tour of the Chinese city as part of strengthening the friendship between China and the Philippines.

Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian welcomed Arroyo, who visited Guangzhou's major landmarks, such as the annual Canton Fair, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall,  Flower City Square, and Canton Tower.

Her visit came as China opened to the public again after three years of warding the nation off the threats of Covid-19 pandemic.

For the former leader, it was an event reminiscent of her younger days. In 1977, she also visited China as a young delegation member of the Association of Philippines-China Understanding.

"Forty-six years later, Madam walked the streets of Guanghzou again, and passed the baton of China-Philippines friendship to the next generation," Huang said.

The youth delegation that Arroyo joined learned about Guangzhou's, as well as of China's, historic reforms and opening up.

They also embarked on a Pearl River cruise with a send-off from Arroyo.

"For the next few days, the delegates will visit other cities and continue their memorable and exciting China trip," Huang said.