Joint Statement on the 25th GPH-MILF Formal Exploratory Talks

The 25th round of exploratory talks between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) ended today with both sides expressing satisfaction on the progress of their discussions, and recognizing the many challenges that have yet to be resolved in order to find a political solution to the Bangsamoro Question and the armed conflict in Mindanao.

The Parties acknowledge the need to explore creative approaches that will address the political, legal and other dimensions of the problems.

The Parties likewise considered reports from the International Monitoring Team (IMT), and renewed the mandate of the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) for a period of twelve (12) months beginning February 2012.

The Parties also agreed to invite two (2) consultants to their respective delegations.

The Parties agreed to meet again March 2012 for the next round of exploratory talks.

The Parties extend their appreciation to His Excellency President Benigno Simeon Aquino III for his commitment to a just and lasting peace in Mindano and to His Excellency Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak for his continued support in the facilitation of the GPH-MILF Peace Talks. The Parties also extend their gratitude to the members of the International Contact Group (ICG).

Done this 15th day of February 2012 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

FOR THE GPH:                                      FOR THE MILF:

(Sgd)                                                         (Sgd.)
MARVIC M.V.F. LEONEN                      MOHAGHER IQBAL
GPH Panel Chairman                           MILF Panel Chairman

SIGNED IN THE PRESENCE OF:

(Sgd.)
TENGKU DATO’ AB GHAFAR TENGKU MOHAMED
Malaysian Facilitator 

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