Secretary-General Salutes Efforts Supporting Fresh Peace Talks in Colombia

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General welcomes today’s announcement of the launching of peace talks between the Government of Colombia and the National Liberation Army, following the signing of an agreement between the parties.

At a time when peace talks between the Government of Colombia and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia-People’s Army have entered their final stage, today’s announcement marks another important step that reinforces the Colombian people’s hopes for sustainable peace.

The Secretary-General salutes the efforts of the countries supporting the peace process in Colombia as guarantors and accompanying nations.  He reiterates the commitment of the United Nations to continue providing its support to the peace process.