OIC group talks Moro peace

JAKARTA (JP): Representatives from six nations of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) yesterday gathered for a one-day meeting here to discuss developments in the peace process between the Philippine government and the secessionist Moro National Liberation Front.

The six countries -- Bangladesh, Indonesia, Libya, Saudi Arabia, Senegal and Somalia -- are part of the joint committee established by the OIC to oversee the peace talks.

"There have been new developments, so all sides need to meet and exchange views on it," said Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Alatas as quoted by Antara Sunday evening.

Some five million Moslems, known as Moros, have for centuries been fighting to establish an autonomous state in the south of the Philippines.

Under the aegis of the OIC, Indonesia has sponsored several formal peace talks between Manila and the Moro National Liberation Front.

The last round of talks were held in November last year.

Apart from delegates from the six countries, yesterday's meeting was also attended by representatives from the Philippine government and the Moro National Liberation Front.

Alatas explained that one of the obstacles left remaining was the question of a plebiscite.

He said the Moro National Liberation Front were adamant about being given autonomy in 13 provinces in the southern island of Mindanao, as stipulated in the Tripoli agreement, without having to hold any plebiscites.

Meanwhile, Manila would only accede to such demands if a plebiscite was taken. (mds)