U.S. criticizes Philippines for negotiating with terrorists

by on July 13th, 2004

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/3891229.stm

The state department’s Richard Boucher said the US was “disappointed” after Manila’s deputy foreign minister said they would go “as soon as possible”.

[…]

A US official was quoted by Reuters news agency as saying: “We have seen recent statements from the Philippine government about withdrawing 51 of their troops from Iraq, possibly ahead of the planned August rotation.

“We are seeking clarification from the Philippine government regarding this matter.”

The official said “such a decision would send the wrong signal to terrorists around the globe”.

At the weekend, the Philippine government said it would not give in to the militants’ demands.

Etalkinghead Staff