JAKARTA, Indonesia – The Indonesian government on Tuesday (October 9th) welcomed a statement by Philippines President Benigno Aquino marking a preliminary peace agreement between his government and the rebel Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), local media reported. The framework agreement will likely be signed Monday.

In an official statement, Indonesia's Foreign Affairs Ministry said the preliminary agreement, signed Sunday, "reflects the strong commitment of the government of the Philippines to create comprehensive peace in the Southern Philippines," The Jakarta Globe reported.

The statement also assured Indonesia's readiness to provide support and assistance, including exchanging expertise to ensure lasting peace.

For nearly two decades, Jakarta has served as a facilitator for the peace process and has contributed monitoring teams stemming from the agreement, according to Jawa Pos National Network.