President Duterte and Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad yesterday renewed the Philippines’ and Malaysia’s commitment to work together to strengthen peace and stability in the Southeast Asian region.
In a joint press conference following their bilateral meeting in Malacanang, Duterte called Malaysia the Philippines’ partner for progress and brother for peace.
According to the President, he and Mahathir resolved to ramp up cooperation to address security issues, particularly on terrorism, piracy, and transnational crimes, including the fight against the illegal drugs trade.
“I was happy to share with the Prime Minister the great strides we have achieved towards securing just and lasting peace in Mindanao,” he said.
Duterte noted how Malaysia played a prominent role in achieving the historic Bangsamoro Organic Law. Malaysia is the third-party facilitator for the government’s peace negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
“The road leading to the historic transition to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region was paved in large part by the support of our international partners. Malaysia occupies a prominent role in this roster of friends,” he said.
Mahathir lauded the BOL, saying that the newly established Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will help boost economic ties between the two countries. He said he is hoping for a smooth transition of the ARMM to the BARMM.
“I congratulated the President Duterte on the success of the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law and the appointment of the members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority,” he said. “I therefore assured Mr. President of Malaysia’s desire to continue to be of help in the development of Mindanao,” he added.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, security, stability, safety, and freedom of navigation and overflight over the South China Sea, as well as the peaceful settlement of disputes.
The two also discussed the efforts for peace being exerted by both North and South Korea. (Argyll Geducos)