Informal talks between the Philippine Government and the NDFP in Norway

The negotiating panels of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) held informal peace talks in Norway from 13 to 15 May. The Norwegian Government acted as host and third party facilitator to the talks, which took place at the request of the two parties. The previous meeting of the negotiating panels took place in Oslo in August 2005. 

Raymond Johansen, State Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, commented: “The protracted conflict between the GRP and the NDFP has caused a great deal of suffering in the country. This conflict does not get much attention internationally. However, Norway is seeking to ensure that efforts to resolve “forgotten conflicts” such as this receive the neces-sary international support.” 

The GRP and the NDFP have exchanged views on the status of the peace process. The parties have agreed to meet again, and have invited Norway to facilitate a meeting later this year. 

“It is positive that the parties have conducted confidential talks. Norway attaches importance to creating meeting places for talks between parties to a conflict. And I hope that these talks have created a platform for the parties, with Norwegian assistance, to further advance the peace process,” said Mr Johansen.