OIC to pursue peace talks with gov’t, MNLF

MANILA, Philippines - The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has set a tripartite meeting with the government and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to pursue the peace process that it has initiated.

In telephone interview, Emmanuel Fontanilla, MNLF spokesman, told The  STAR  the planned tripartite meeting set in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia early this month did not push through because of time constraint.

The OIC-Peace Committee on Southern Philippines (PCSP) chaired by Indonesia has reiterated its commitment to continue  in the contribution to the comprehensive solution for peace in Southern Philippines, he added.

Fontanilla said the tripartite meeting is set after the 40th session of  the council of foreign ministers.

The OIC Secretary General has asked MNLF chairman Nur Misuari to appoint a delegation  to the tripartite and council of ministers meeting.

Indonesia as chairman of the PCSP will submit a report on the hostilities in Zamboanga City.

The OIC PCSP has also asked the Philippine government to take into account the important and historic role of Misuari in the peace process.

It will also ask member-Islamic nations to increase their humanitarian assistance in Zamboanga City after the outbreak of hostilities last September

A STAR source said Misuari is now in the Middle East and preparing to attend the foreign ministers’ session where he is expected to deliver his report during  the plenary session.

The  OIC has recognized the MNLF under Misuari as the representative of the Bangsamoro in the Philippines. Misuari has been granted a permanent observer status in the OIC.

Fontanilla declined to confirm or deny the whereabouts of Misuari, who has a pending arrest warrant due to the Zamboanga crisis.