DATE=5/8/2000
TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT
TITLE=E-U / PHILIPPINES (L-ONLY)
NUMBER=2-262096
BYLINE=RON PEMSTEIN
DATELINE=BRUSSELS
CONTENT=
VOICED AT:
INTRO: The European Union's foreign policy chief
Javier Solana is flying to the Philippines to discuss
ways to free European hostages being held by Muslim
rebels. Ron Pemstein reports from Brussels, Mr. Solana
says he does not plan to become a mediator.
TEXT: The Philippine Government has been concerned
about suggestions that ambassadors from the captives'
nations be involved in the negotiations for their
freedom. The European Union is sending its foreign
policy chief, Javier Solana, to Manila for talks with
Philippine leaders.
Before leaving Brussels, Mr. Solana told reporters he
does not plan to mediate with the rebels.
///Solana Act///
I am not going to mediate at this stage. I will
go only on a diplomatic and humanitarian mission
to guarantee the life and the security of our
fellow citizens, as I said.
///End Act///
There are citizens from Germany, France and Finland
among the 10 foreign tourists that are being held by
the Muslim rebels on the southern island of Jolo. Mr.
Solana says by sending him to Manila, the European
Union is showing a growing commitment to a common
foreign policy.
///Solana Act///
That means that we are moving forward on the
idea of having constructed a common policy
toward the rest of the world and particularly in
defending the interests and security,
collectively of our fellow citizens and
Europeans.
///End Act///
/// opt /// Mr. Solana meets first with European
ambassadors in Manila before he sees President Joseph
Estrada on Tuesday afternoon. The E-U foreign policy
chief also expects to meet the Minister of Foreign
Affairs and Defense as well as the Philippine
negotiator with the rebels. /// end opt /// Mr.
Solana expects his trip to Manila to be quick to
emphasize the European Union's safety concerns.
The Philippine government contends the hostage issue
is a domestic matter. The European Union has pledged
to spare no effort to secure the hostages' release. A
statement by the Portuguese presidency says the
European Union trusts the Philippine government will
explore all avenues, and possible assistance from
additional mediators should not be excluded. (SIGNED)
NEB/RP/GE/KBK
08-May-2000 10:43 AM EDT (08-May-2000 1443 UTC)
NNNN
Source: Voice of America
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