Brende opens Philippines peace negotiations in Oslo

peace talksSupporters of the communist group National Democratic Front (NDF) of the Philippines cover their faces while displaying placards during a protest march calling for the resumption of peace talks between the government and the Maoist-led rebels, along a main thoroughfare in metro Manila, Philippines August 20, 2016. Placard reads at L-R: "Youth head to the rural provinces! Join the New People's Army!" "Attain peace based on justice! Resolve the roots of civil war." REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco

Foreign Minister Brende will give the opening statement when the Communist movement NDFP and Philippine’s government meet for peace talks in Oslo this week.

The parties will meet for the opening ceremony at Holmenkollen Park Hotel at 9 am . In addition to Brende, the representatives of the two parties will also give their statements.

The conflict between the Communists and the government of the Philippines has been ongoing for almost 50 years. Various peace initiatives over the last 30 years have not led to a permanent solution to the conflict.

However, the Philippines’ new president Rodrigo Duterte, has demonstrated a strong personal commitment to the peace process. Both parties have also taken conciliatory steps to signal willingness to negotiate ahead of the talks. This has created hope that the formal round of negotiations which now begins in Oslo, will bring lasting peace.

Norway has since 2001 acted as facilitator of the peace talks.
During the talks in Oslo, the parties have agree to discuss a ceasefire, the release of prisoners and a timeline for further negotiations. Political, economic and constitutional reforms will also be discussed.

 

Source: NTB scanpix / Norway Today