Jan 29, 2014

Moro: EU High Representative Welcomes Conclusion Of Peace Negotiations


On 25 January 2014, Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, welcomed the conclusion of peace negotiations between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the government of the Philippines, announced the same day. 

Below is a statement by the EU High Representative:

Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the Commission, made today [25 January 2014] the following statement:

"I wish to congratulate the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front on the successful conclusion of the peace negotiations, announced on 25 January [2014] in Kuala Lumpur.

Signing of the Annex on Normalisation marks the end of a long and difficult process of peace negotiations. It is a truly historic moment, demonstrating the Parties' commitment to achieving long lasting peace on the Philippines' island of Mindanao through a unique and holistic concept of normalisation that encompasses the gradual decommissioning of arms, overall demilitarization, and its economic and social development.

The EU, as a member of the International Monitoring Team and major development partner in Mindanao since 1990, will continue to fully support the implementation of the process. Sustainable peace in Mindanao requires an inclusive approach and all stakeholders, including the Moro National Liberation Front, need to demonstrate their goodwill for long lasting results.

The EU commends the contribution of the Malaysian facilitator of the peace talks, Tengku Dato' Ab Ghafar Tengku Mohamed, as well as the members of the International Contact Group, to the successful conclusion of the peace negotiations."