Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement:

“Canada welcomes the negotiation of a comprehensive peace agreement between President Aquino’s government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, covering the southern Philippines region of Mindanao.

“This marks another step forward as both sides continue along the path toward building lasting peace, stability, development and prosperity in Mindanao following decades of conflict.

“With a foundation for peace now established, we encourage both parties to continue working in the spirit of cooperation during the implementation phase of the agreement in the months ahead.

“Canada also recognizes the important work done by Malaysia as facilitator of the negotiations, and that of the International Contact Group on Mindanao in advancing the process.

“Canada is proud to support the efforts of both parties through our contribution to the work of the Independent Commission on Policing.”

src:news.gc.ca