President Aquino invites EU to monitor Bangsamoro plebiscite in 2015

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): President Aquino invites EU to monitor Bangsamoro plebiscite in 2015

President Benigno Aquino III has invited the European Union (EU) to monitor the conduct of the Bangsamoro plebiscite in the Philippines next year.

The President extended the invitation to European Council President Herman Van Rompuy during a meeting at the European Council headquarters here on Tuesday.

“The EU has been invited to monitor the plebiscite in Bangsamoro in 2015 and we are currently looking into that possibility,” Rompuy said during a joint press conference with the President that followed their almost one-hour meeting.

The EU leader praised President Aquino for his “pivotal” role in achieving lasting peace in Mindanao.

“The European Union supports the peace process in Mindanao and I would like to take this opportunity to commend the President for his pivotal role,” said Rompuy.

President Aquino informed Rompuy about the submission of the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law to leaders of Congress last September 10, which the EU leader welcomed since it will pave the way for a greater autonomy in Mindanao.

Aquino assured the EU of the swift passage of the bill to implement “positive change” and end four decades of conflict in southern Philippines.

“The European Union has been one of our most valuable partners in securing and sustaining peace in Mindanao, and we are indeed grateful for the EU’s continued support as we tread the straight and righteous path to peace and equitable development,” President Aquino said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=685118