GMA meets with US senator for talks on peace process, terrorism

MANILA, Philippines - President Arroyo met yesterday with visiting US Sen. Bill Nelson in Malacañang and discussed the peace process and development in Mindanao, as well as the threat of terrorism in the region.

Press Secretary Cerge Remonde told reporters that Nelson, a member of the US Senate intelligence and armed services committees, also discussed trade matters with Mrs. Arroyo, being also a member of the budget, finance and commerce committees.

Nelson, who arrived in the country through Zamboanga City from Brunei, is expected to leave on Friday.

In Zamboanga City, he met with National Intelligence Coordinating Agency director general Pedro Cabuay Jr. and Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command chief Maj. Gen. Ben Dolorfino.

“The visit of Sen. Nelson is part of the continuing series of exchange of visits of senior Philippine and US officials,” Remonde said.

“Included in the agenda are the Mindanao peace process, terrorist threats in the country, and development projects in Mindanao.”   – Paolo Romero