March 13, 2010 - In a press statement dated March 9, the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HDC) had announced that Javier Solana, who left the European Union after ten years as the High Representative for Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) last year, has joined it as Honorary President.

David Gorman, the country head of the Swiss based private mediation organization, in an email informed www.luwaran.com of Solana’s decision to join the HDC.

The press statement also said that Dr Solana will “not only represent the organisation to others, but will also contribute advice and participate in practical peacemaking activities whenever he can add value”, according to the HD Centre, recognised as one of the world’s leading conflict mediation organisations.

“It is the HD Centre’s uniquely practical and sensitive approach to dialogue at senior levels that made me want to collaborate with the organisation. They are already working to resolve more armed conflicts than any other private mediation organisation.” said Mr Solana.

Dr Solana, the former Foreign Minister of Spain, and Secretary General of North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) has an unparalleled experience of negotiation in international security and political environments.

“We are absolutely delighted that Javier Solana, Europe’s leading diplomat, has agreed to join us. A more eminent person, with a more relevant background we could not have hoped for.” said the HD Centre’s Director, Martin Griffiths

“This is not only a success for the organisation, but a demonstration of our commitment to continually improve our approach to peacemaking and mediating in armed conflict.” said Karin Jestin, Chair of the Board of the HD Centre.

Francisco Javier Solana de Madariaga, born 14 July 1942, was a member of the Spanish Government (1982–1995), Secretary General of NATO (1995-1999) and Secretary-General of both the Council of the European Union (EU) and the Western European Union (WEU) (1999-2009).

Dr Solana, a professor of physics, is married with two children and lives in Brussels. He speaks fluent Spanish, English and French.

When sought to comment on this development, Mohagher Iqbal, MILF chief peace negotiator, said Solana’s affiliation with HDC will definitely add to its clout and prestige by bringing in someone who is not only well-respected in the European Union but also in global diplomacy.

He said Solana indirectly or even directly can enrich the Mindanao peace-making by its affiliation with HDC.

Iqbal also congratulated Gorman for HDC’s success in bringing people of high caliber to its fold.