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Rebel peace talks resume

Negotiators expect to add to framework agreement
Rebel peace talks resume
Government peace delegates arrive in Kuala Lumpur (photo courtesy of the Office of the Presidential Adviser of the Philippines)
Published: November 12, 2012 10:24 AM GMT
Updated: November 12, 2012 10:24 AM GMT

Peace talks between the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) resumed today in Kuala Lumpur with the two sides looking to add more substance to a framework deal signed last month. Government negotiator Marvic Leonen said he expected the talks on a comprehensive agreement to go well, following the optimism surrounding the first deal on October 15. “Our work takes place within this umbrella of hope,” he said in an opening statement at the start of the seven-day dialogue. The all-important comprehensive agreement detailing power and wealth-sharing among numerous other points of contention could be finished during this round, he added. “All of us now are part of history. Let us work together some more to make that history truly matter,” said Leonen, stressing that the process has widespread international backing. MILF negotiator Mohagher Iqbal expressed similar optimism as both sides look towards a binding agreement to end four decades of civil war. “The spirit of compromise is still very strong. I believe we can settle all the issues,” he said. Malaysian facilitator Tengku Dato’ Ghafar Tengku bin Mohamed cautioned both panels that “the world is watching.” Related reports Rebel unification 'impossible,' says leaderGovernment and rebels ink landmark deal

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