Aquino thanks Malaysia PM for help in Minda peace talks

President Benigno Aquino III personally thanked Malaysian Prime Minister Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak for his country’s help in peace efforts in Mindanao, the Palace said Saturday. “President Aquino told Prime Minister Najib that bringing peace and sustainable economic development to Mindanao is a priority of his administration," the Official Gazette quoted Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo as saying, in an article posted on its website Saturday. Aquino relayed his gratitude while both leaders were at the 65th United Nations General Assembly in New York. Malacañang said Aquino also briefed Najib on the Philippines’ readiness to resume peace talks with the MILF in October, and reiterated his administration’s desire to welcome Malaysia as a facilitator in the peace process. In inviting Malaysia to assume the role of facilitator, which could be formalized through a Terms of Reference agreed to by all parties, the President showed his determination to “resort to all the best options" when it comes to peace, Romulo said. Aquino also informed Najib that the Philippine government has already formed its peace panel, saying that the government “hopes that the talks could already start next month, with the first meeting to be held in the Philippines." The President conveyed to Malaysia his “clear and complete commitment to the peace process and his determination to realize all our hopes and dreams" for peace in Mindanao, Romulo added. Both leaders agreed that aside from exploring ways to further strengthen bilateral relations, any issue that the two countries face will be dealt with through dialogue and diplomacy, including protecting their respective nationals in each other’s country. Aquino also assured the Malaysian Prime Minister of the Philippine government’s continued cooperation in the case of two Malaysians abducted in North Borneo in February this year. The Philippine leader assured Najib every effort is being taken to rescue them safely. “The Anti-Terrorism Council and Philippine security forces are presently verifying if they are still in the area. We hope to work more closely with Malaysia to resolve the case," Aquino said.—JV, GMANews.TV