Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific visits Cotabato
AUSTRALIA’S Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, visited Cotabato City in May to highlight Australia’s commitment to supporting peace and stability in Mindanao.
Senator Fierravanti-Wells met with the Regional Governor of Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao The Hon Mujiv Hataman and representatives of non- government organisations and youth leaders.
“Australia is committed to supporting our friends in the Philippines to prevent the spread of violent extremist ideologies” said Senator Fierravanti-Wells.
“The devastation of Marawi City, the loss of life and forced displacement of people all show the terrible impact that these ideologies have,” she continued.
Australia is working with local partners in Mindanao to provide humanitarian relief to people displaced from Marawi, support the recovery and reconstruction of the city and promote peace and tolerance in communities.
“I welcome the efforts of the Government of the Autonomous Region of Mus-
lim Mindanao, and other local partners, to counter the messages of terrorist groups and keep people on the path to peace”
added Senator Fierravanti-Wells.
In the last 12 months Australia as provided over $20 million in development
assistance for programs in Mindanao, including for basic education and peace and stability.