MANILA, Feb. 28 (PNA) --
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. (PNA)
LGI/ANP
LGI/ANP
