Phl, Italy discuss peace accord with MILF

VIENTIANE (via PLDT) – The Philippines and Italy discussed the landmark signing of the framework agreement with Muslim rebels, issues regarding local double taxation and rice production during their bilateral meeting at the 9th Asia-Europe Meeting here.

President Aquino held four bilateral meetings during his two-day visit here, among them – aside from Italy – were Switzerland, Norway and Japan.

The previously scheduled bilateral meeting with Poland was canceled.

The Philippines also had a trilateral meeting with the European Union and the European Commission.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma said Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti congratulated Aquino for the Bangsamoro agreement and made commitments to the country’s peace efforts by way of development projects in rural areas, which will start early next year.

Another salient point discussed was Italy’s concern about the government’s double taxation, as Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima gave assurance that steps would be taken for the country’s removal from a “fiscal blacklist.”

Purisima likewise expressed willingness to sign an “agreement on amendments to the tax treaty between the two countries, which, once signed, will be submitted to the Senate for ratification.”

Monti invited Manila to participate in the Milan 2015 Expo, owing to the fact that the Philippines pioneered the improvement of rice productivity through the International Rice Research Institute based in Laguna.

Aquino told his Italian counterpart that he would consider his invitation.

More than 100 countries are expected to participate in the event, which carries the theme: “Feeding the Planet: Energy for Life.”