09/06/2000 (Agence Europe) - On the eve of the resumption, on Saturday, of negotiations between the Philippine Government and the hostage takers on the Island of Jolo, the High Representative for the common external and security policy, Javier Solana, had talks with the Executive Director of the Philippine Government, Ronaldo Zamora. He reminded him of the undertaking made at his meeting a month ago with President Estrada, of "doing the utmost possible to secure the safety and the release of the hosdstages", says a press release from Javier Solana. The High Representative "reiterated his concern on the humanitarian situation and urged the Government to strive for a rapid suvccessful outcome of the negotiations". Mr. Zamora "confirmed that the Philippine Government was pressing ahead to obtain the release of the hostages and to resolve the crisis peacefully.