REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA - Indonesia supports peaceful solution in conflict in South Philippines. Therefore, Indonesia is always ready to mediate conflict between Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and government forces in Zamboanga City and its surrounding areas.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Marty Natalegawa said Indonesia as a neighbor country and facilitator of peace agreement between MNLF and the government in 1996 would continue to monitor development of the Philippines. Indonesia urges all sides to maintain self restraint to ensure the safety and security of civil society.

"A peaceful solution is the only option that must be taken both sides," Natalegawa said recently.

MNLF was reportedly asked Indonesia to mediate the conflict, it never officially files this request, neither to Indonesia nor Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). 

"Indonesian government never received formal request from MNLF to be a mediator of conflict," Indonesian Ambassador to the Philippines, Yohanes Legowo said.

Conflict in Southern Philippines has also draw attention from European Union (EU). Staff Relations of EU Delegation to Philippines, Thelma Gecolea said EU concerned over escalation in Zamboanga. EU asked the faction led by Nur Misuari to liberate civilian hostages.

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