British Foreign Secretary William Hague
MANILA, Philippines–The United Kingdom on Wednesday expressed hopes that the new framework peace agreement between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front would pave the way for development in Mindanao and finally end the secessionist war in the region.
UK Foreign Secretary William Hague made this statement as he lauded the two parties for forging an agreement that would create the Bangsamoro, replacing the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao as a new region run by a ministerial government.
“I wholeheartedly welcome the announcement of the framework agreement that has been agreed between the government of the Philippines and the MILF to bring peace and development in Muslim Mindanao. This is a testament to the commitment and vision of the parties,” said Hague in a statement issued in London.
“The agreement has the potential finally to end the long-running-conflict. Full implementation of the agreement by 2016 can bring about peace, security and development. That will be good not only for Mindanao, but for the whole Philippines,” he said.
UK is part of the International Contact Group that observed negotiations between the two parties in Kuala Lumpur. Like other nations who earlier hailed the peace deal, Hague said the British government is prepared to extend assistance in pursuing the framework if needed by the parties.
“The UK’s role as a member of the ICG has allowed us to see the leadership shown by President (Benigno Aquino III) and the Government Panel and the leadership of the MILF,” Hague said.
“We stand ready to provide further assistance if such a role would be valuable to the parties,” the British foreign secretary added.
British Ambassador to the Philippines Stephen Lillie called the framework agreement “a huge step forward” in bringing lasting peace to Mindanao.
Citing UK’s experience in brokering peace in Northern Ireland, Lillie said: “We have shared many experiences from that process with the parties here. One of the most relevant lessons at this point is to recognize that even after an agreement, it won’t all be plain sailing, and there will still be challenges.”
“We have been showing our support since the ICG was formed in 2009, and we will continue to be supportive,” the ambassador said.