UN hails government, MILF framework agreement

MANILA -- The United Nations (UN) welcomed Tuesday the announcement of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) of reaching a framework peace agreement aimed at ending decades of fighting in Mindanao.

In a statement, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon commended President Benigno Aquino III for his vision and courage, as well as the commitment of the MILF leadership, in reaching the landmark agreement.

"The United Nations stands ready to provide assistance to the parties, as needed, in implementing the Framework Peace Agreement," he said.

Ban also expressed gratefulness to all national and international actors, in particular the Malaysian government, for their contributions to the success of the peace negotiations.

Malaysia acts as the third party facilitator in the peace process between the GPH and the MILF.

The secretary-general also expressed his heartfelt wishes for peace and prosperity to the Government and the people of the Philippines, in particular the people of Bangsamoro, to be created in Mindanao as a new autonomous political entity in the country.

The GPH and the MILF are set to sign the framework agreement on October 15. (SDR/Sunnex)