Arroyo back from US, Europe trip

President Arroyo returned yesterday after a trip to the United States and Europe where she lobbied for global aid to restore peace to the Muslim rebellion-wracked southern Philippines.

"I would like to report to you the nation that I had a very productive trip," Arroyo said in remarks on her return.

"Together with my delegation, we brought the cause of peace, security and development to important venues and events," said Mrs. Arroyo, who was welcomed by military chief Gen. Narciso Abaya and Cabinet members.

She said the government would create a "multi-donor trust fund" with contributions from the World Bank and the United States government once a peace accord was reached between Manila and the 12,500-strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front, which has been waging a rebellion in Mindanao.

The President did not give details of the fund.

Talks are scheduled to resume in October in Malaysia, officials earlier said.

After speaking at the UN General Assembly in New York, Mrs. Arroyo had held talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, whose government is helping broker talks between Manila and Muslim separatists.

She said Malaysia has pledged continued support to the peace process.

Mrs. Arroyo, accompanied by her family, arrived in Manila from Paris, the last leg of her five-day trip where she made a speech before the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

She also visited the Vatican for a meeting with the ailing Pope John Paul II. — AFP