President Aquino thanks Malaysian gov’t for support in peace talks, 'Yolanda' recovery

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 29): President Aquino thanks Malaysian gov’t for support in peace talks, 'Yolanda' recovery

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday thanked the Malaysian government for showing support to the Philippines in facilitating peace talks and giving aid in wake of typhoon "Yolanda" (international name: Haiyan).

In his speech during the joint press conference with His Excellency Najib Razak, the President said he was grateful to His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the Prime Minister and the people of Malaysia for the warm welcome.

He said the welcome was extended not only to him and his delegation but also, and more importantly, to the thousands of Filipinos who live and work in Malaysia.

President Aquino noted that the Philippines and Malaysia have worked hand in hand given intertwined history as Malay peoples.

“I wish to thank Your Excellency for the significant support your government has demonstrated in facilitating and hosting the peace talks between my government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF),” the President said.

He said the successful conclusion of the Mindanao peace process “finds root in the determination of both our peoples to strengthen the foundations of peace and justice.”

“This makes possible the empowerment of all the peoples of Mindanao,” he added. “I look forward to welcoming Your Excellency in Manila for the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.”

The President also thanked the Malaysian government for the solidarity the people of Malaysia showed Filipinos in the wake of "Yolanda", which he said was a “true display of our common commitment to look after the well-being of each other.”

“Your Excellency, I speak on behalf of our people when I say: the Filipino people will never forget an act of kindness. On behalf of my countrymen, please accept my sincerest gratitude: Terimah Kasi. Maraming salamat,” he said.

President Aquino also said that the meeting between two governments “reflects the respect and friendship that peoples with a shared and inextricable history accord one another.”

“Truly, our ancestors would have been proud to see their sons and daughters banding together to realize a common vision: Citizens empowered to live dignified and productive lives, so that they themselves may help open the doors of even greater opportunity for their fellow Filipinos and Malaysians,” the President said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=620851