Gov't upbeat on resolving impasse in peace talks

From the Philippine Star (Dec 17): Gov't upbeat on resolving impasse in peace talks

The government today expressed optimism that the "technical impasse" being claimed by former separatist group Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on the recent formal talks in Malaysia could be addressed. In a statement it issued earlier, the MILF said the 34th formal exploratory talks with the Philippine government ended in a " technical impasse" on Saturday since it adjourned without a closing program, a joint statement, and a date for the next round of talks. "The 'technical impasse' as how the MILF described (the recent round of talks) is not insurmountable," said presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda in a news briefing.

Lacierda noted the progress made in discussions concerning the four annexes of the framework agreement on the Bangsamoro. The annexes include power-sharing, wealth-sharing, normalization, and transitional arrangements and modalities. "There has been progress made so the government does not see any reason why the annexes will not be signed," said Lacierda. He, however, could not say where the annexes could still be inked before the end of the year. The Philippine government and the MILF have targeted to complete the comprehensive agreement, including the annexes, by year-end.

http://www.philstar.com/breaking-news/2012/12/17/887265/govt-upbeat-resolving-impasse-peace-talks