June 16, 2015 - Ottawa, Ontario - Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today released the following statement welcoming the start of the decommissioning process involving the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in the southern Philippines:
“Canada applauds the determination of the Government of the Philippines and the members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to move forward with the peace process.
“The start of the decommissioning process demonstrates the willingness of both sides to pave the way forward for lasting peace, stability, development and long-term economic prosperity for the people of the southern Philippines, and all Filipinos, who have endured decades of conflict.
“Canada continues to support the Bangsamoro peace process and all efforts to implement a comprehensive agreement.”
During the visit to Canada in May by Benigno Aquino III, President of the Philippines, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced Canadian support for a number of initiatives, including $1.5 million to deploy police officers to provide strategic advice on the implementation of policing options for the Bangsamoro region, as well as training on countering transnational organized crime. In addition, the Prime Minister announced $1.5 million in humanitarian assistance funding to respond to the immediate needs of people displaced by conflict in the region, bringing Canada’s total humanitarian funding to address the needs of conflict-affected populations in the region to $3.5 million since 2014.
Johanna Quinney
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
343-203-1851
johanna.quinney@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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