Vietnamese President Truong Tan Sang is due to arrive in the Philippines Wednesday for a three-day visit aimed at expanding relations.

Mr. Sang's visit, his first since he was elected president earlier this year, takes place at a time when the two countries are marking the 35th anniversary of diplomatic ties.

Later in the day, the Vietnamese leader is due to meet with his Philippine counterpart, Benigno Aquino, to discuss measures to increase cooperation in economics, trade, investment, defense, security, education and culture. Mr. Aquino will host a state dinner for the Vietnamese delegation.

The two leaders also are expected to sign a number of agreements and issue a joint statement.

On Thursday, Mr. Sang will lead a wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Monument and then unveil the bust of the Vietnamese Socialist Republic's founder, Ho Chi Minh, at the ASEAN Park in Manilla.

He also will visit the International Rice Research Institute in Los Banos, preside over a business forum, and hold talks with other high-ranking Philippine officials.

Before returning to Hanoi Friday, President Sang is scheduled to meet with Vietnam Embassy personnel and members of the Vietnamese community.