Norway reiterates support for Mindanao peace process

MANILA, Philippines -- Norway on Friday reiterated its support for the peace process between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, whose panels are set to meet on Saturday to discuss implementation of the peace agreement they signed in 2014.

 

In a statement, the Norwegian Embassy said it supports the meeting between the two parties in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to discuss the initial stages of the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.  

 

"This shows their commitment to peace and development in Mindanao. The meeting presents an opportunity to build momentum for the peace efforts,” Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines Erik Førner said.

 

Norway is part of the Malaysia-led International Monitoring Team, which watches over implementation of the ceasefire between the MILF and the government. It is also part of the Independent Decommissioning Body that will oversee the process of decommissioning MILF fighters and weapons as part of the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

 

The fresh talks come after the 16th Congress failed to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law before President Benigno Aquino III's term ended on June 30. President Rodrigo Duterte, who talked about the need to correct the historical injustice behind the Moro people's struggle for self-determination during the election campaign, has promised that the CAB will be implemented.

 

In his first State of the Nation Address, Duterte appealed to Congress to pass the BBL, which seeks to create an autonomous region with more devolved powers than the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

 

“We have been a committed partner to this peace process for several years and we will continuously remain a strong supporter to efforts that promote peace in the Philippines, for the benefit of all Filipinos,” Ambassador Førner said.

 

Norway is also the third-party facilitator in talks between the government and the National Democratc Front of the Philippines. Formal peace talks between the two parties are expected to start within the month.