March 27, 2014 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement:
“Canada congratulates the Government of the Philippines and its partner, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, on the signing today in Manila of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.
“After decades of conflict and more than 20 years of negotiations, this historic milestone paves the way for lasting peace, stability, development and long-term economic prosperity for the people of the southern Philippines and will redound to the benefit of all Filipinos.
“We salute the determination of President Benigno Aquino to see these negotiations through to completion. Canada notes with appreciation the engagement of the Government of Malaysia as facilitator of the talks that have led to this Agreement.
“Canada is proud to have supported the development of the Agreement through our contribution to the work of the Government of the Philippines’ Independent Commission on Policing.
“Canada encourages both parties to the Agreement, and all Filipinos, to continue to work together to make this Agreement a reality, to implement it in good faith and to overcome the legacy of conflict. Canada stands ready to assist.”
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