The secretary encourages all parties to work toward a “quick and full implementation” of the agreement.
The UK had been attending the talks as a member of the International Contact Group, a support group that includes Japan, Saudi Arabia and turkey and four international NGOs.
For her part, EU High Representative Catherine Ashton said: “[The] signing of the Annex on Normalization marks the end of a long and difficult process of peace negotiations. It is a truly historic moment, demonstrating the Parties’ commitment to achieving long lasting peace on the Philippines’ island of Mindanao through a unique and holistic concept of normalization that encompasses the gradual decommissioning of arms, overall demilitarization, and its economic and social development.”
“The EU, as a member of the International Monitoring Team and major development partner in Mindanao since 1990, 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,” Ashton said.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry of Japan likewise commended the successful conclusion of the talks.
“Japan strongly hopes that the parties concerned will continue their efforts to steadily implement the transition process including the enactment of the Bangsamoro Basic Law and the establishment of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority towards the realization of the Bangsamoro Government,” it said in a statement.
“Having a firm belief that the peace in Mindanao will lead to the peace and stability in this region, Japan has extended its support to the peace process for years. It is great pleasure that Japan contributed to the progress of the peace process,” it added.
