Philippine government agrees on cease-fire with Muslim rebel group
Manila, Philippines-AP -- Some progress is reported in talks between the Philippine government and Muslim rebels. The government is announcing a cease-fire deal with a large Muslim rebel group today, agreeing to drop arrest warrants against rebel leaders. This could pave the way for peace talks as early as next week.
The deal was reached with the 12-thousand-strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front, which has been fighting for an independent Muslim territory in the southern Philippines for about 30 years.
The group has been blamed for deadly bombings and other terrorist activities. President Gloria Arroyo is calling for formal talks in order to reach a formal peace agreement.
Copyright 2003 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
|
