Philippine Government, Rebels to Hold Talks in Sweden

Peace talks between the Philippine government and the secessionist National Democratic Front (NDF) could be held in Sweden, Vice President Teofisto Guingona said Tuesday.

Guingona, who is concurrently secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs, said in a press conference held in the Presidential Palace that Sweden is a proposed venue duly approved by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and members of the cabinet Cluster E, which in charge of national security issues.

As chairman of the Cabinet Cluster E, Guingona explained that there are several factors that have to be considered in choosing a suitable venue for the peace negotiations with the NDF and the venue should be mutually agreed upon by both parties.

Aside from the Philippine government and the NDF representatives, host country Sweden will also sent its own panel during the peace talks.






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