Norway backs PH gov’t-MILF Bangsamoro meeting in Malaysia

The Norwegian government on Friday expressed support for the meeting between delegates of the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Malaysia to discuss the initial stages in the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

Norway said it appreciated the “dedication and enthusiasm” of both parties for the implementation of the CAB and the peace roadmap.

“Both parties come together in discussing the implementation phase. 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 in a statement.

“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,” he added.

The Philippine government delegation led by Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza will sit down with MILF officials in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday.

Also part of the delegation were House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Interior Secretary Mike Sueno, and House Majority Leader Rudy Fariñas.

Norway, also a third-party facilitator between the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines negotiations, is part of the International Monitoring Team watching over the ceasefire in Mindanao, and the Independent Decommissioning Body involved in the process of decommissioning firearms and fighters.

Peace talks between the government and the NDF will resume in the capital of Oslo on Aug. 20.