• Published: www.www.mb.com.ph

World leaders have expressed their support to the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) after the signing of a peace deal that hopefully would end decades-long violence in the southern part of the country. The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs describes the signing of normalization annex, the fourth and last of the Framework Agreement of the Bangsamoro, as a “momentous milestone towards a long-lasting peace.”

In a statement of the Embassy of Switzerland in Manila, a copy of which was furnished to Manila Bulletin Online, the Swiss government welcomes the peace accord that marks “the successful conclusion of the peace negotiations between the two parties” as it “demonstrates the parties’ commitment to achieve peace through this historic agreement.” The United States, a long-time ally of the Philippines, also sent its congratulatory messages to both parties. “This agreement offers the promise of peace, security, and economic prosperity now and for future generations in Mindanao,” Secretary of State John Kerry said in a statement posted on the website of US Embassy to Manila. Kerry said the accord shows that the two parties are “moving closer to the vision of a just and peaceful solution,” while commending the Malaysian government for serving as a facilitator of the peace talks for years.

The Philippine government and MILF have signed the normalization annex, along with the addendum on Bangsamoro Waters, on January 25 in Kuala Lumpur. While the implementation of the agreement is expected to be harder, US is optimistic that it will be done. Moreover, the Australian government has assured that it will support the Philippines on the next steps of the peace process. “Congratulations to Filipino people, GOP (Government of the Philippines) and MILF on final annex & addendum in Bangsamoro agreement. Australia [is] ready to help in ongoing process,” Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Bill Tweddel said on his official Twiter feed. The US and Switzerland also praised the International Contact Group, which comprises the Geneva based Center for Humanitarian Dialogue, for its “constructive role” in resolving the conflict that puts Mindanao into poverty. Aside from the framework agreement, the Swiss government has welcomed the MILF as a signatory to the Geneva Call’s Deed of Commitment banning antipersonnel mines. The MILF has also agreed to work with Geneva Call on the prohibition of sexual violence and the protection of women. “The conclusion of the negotiations marks a crucial step for the establishment of the Bangsamoro in Mindanao. Switzerland is confident that the full adherence of the parties to the provisions of the four annexes of the agreement and the support of all groupings in the region towards the successful implementation of this peace settlement will significantly enhance stability and the human security of the people in the southern Philippines,” it added.

The European Union (EU) has also assured the Philippines of its support to the implementation of the accord, congratulating both panels for its commitment to pursue peace in the country. Catherine Ashton, UE Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said the “Signing of the Annex on Normalisation marks the end of a long and difficult process of peace negotiations.” Ashton said the accord is a “unique and holistic concept of normalization that encompasses the gradual decommissioning of arms, overall demilitarization, and its economic and social development.” The EU “will continue to fully support the implementation of the process. Sustainable peace in Mindanao requires an inclusive approach and all stakeholders, including the Moro National Liberation Front, need to demonstrate their goodwill for long lasting results,” she added.