Riyadh Daily Staff / AFP ManilaUS President George W. Bush is expected to push for a "post- conflict" role for the United States once the Philippine government signs a peace deal with Muslim separatists, President Gloria Arroyo’s spokesman said Sunday.
Bush’s eight-hour visit to Manila on October 18 signifies "the strong relationship between the two countries," presidential spokesman Ignacio Bunye said, adding that the US leader would likely press for a strong role in the development of Mindanao, the country’s southern third.
"The commitments of the US... and one of the things that America or President Bush wants is to join in the post-conflict scenario in Mindanao, that after we sign a peace agreement they will participate in the development," of the region, Bunye said.
He said the Bush would likely propose a "mini-Marshall plan" for Mindanao. He did not elaborate. ---