General Framework of Agreement of Intent between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) In the name of God, Most Beneficent, Most Merciful The Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), herein referred to as the Parties Recognizing the need for a negotiated political settlement to bring an end to the armed conflict in Mindanao. Desiring to contribute toward the end and to promote an enduring peace and stability in Mindanao. Noting the Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities of July 18, 1997, signed at Cagayan de Oro City, between the Parties; Have agreed as follows: Article I The Parties commit to pursue the peace negotiations on the substantive issues as soon as possible, and resolutely continue the negotiations on the substantive issues as soon as possible, and resolutely continue the negotiations until the Parties reach a negotiated political settlement. Article II The Parties affirm their commitment to protect and respect human rights in accordance with the principles set forth in the Charter of the United Nations, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Article III The Parties negotiate with sincerity in the resolution and pacific settlement of the conflict, and hereby pledge to implement the joint agreements/ arrangements previously signed by the Parties representatives, such as the Agreement for General Cessation of the Hostilities signed on July 18, 1997 at Cagayan de Oro City and other supplementary agreements. Article IV The Parties pledge to refrain from the use or threat of force to attain undue advantage while peace negotiations on the substantive issues are ongoing. Article V The parties recognize that there will be lasting peace in Mindanao when there is mutual trust, justice, freedom, and tolerance for the identity, culture, way of life and aspirations of all the peoples of Mindanao. For the GRP: Lt. Gen. Orlando V. Soriano (Ret.) Chairman, GRP Negotiating Panel For the MILF: Aleem Abdulaziz Mimbantas Chairman, MILF Negotiating Panel
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