US Ambassador Thomas welcomes peace deal

US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – US Ambassador to the Philippines Harry K. Thomas, Jr. said the preliminary peace deal between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front will promote stability and development in Mindanao.

“We welcome the announcement by the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front that the two sides finalized a framework peace agreement,” Thomas said in a statement Sunday.

He said that although much work remains, successful implementation of the agreement would improve security, stability, and development for the people of Mindanao.

“The United States has long supported peace and stability in Mindanao.  We will continue to look for ways to support the people of Mindanao as they accelerate broad-based and inclusive growth,” he said.

“We also acknowledge the deliberate steps by all parties to maintain the cease-fire that has been in place since 2009.

“We fully support the ongoing peace process and hope the parties can continue to avoid violence as they work toward a final resolution that will last for generations and benefit all the people of the Philippines.”