SG/SM/18664

Secretary-General Welcomes Announcement of Temporary Bilateral Ceasefire in Colombia

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

The Secretary-General welcomes the announcement by the Government of Colombia and the National Liberation Army (ELN) of a temporary bilateral ceasefire from 1 October 2017 to 12 January 2018.

The Secretary-General expresses the hope that the agreement, announced yesterday in Quito, Ecuador, will improve conditions for the civilian population in conflict areas and offer opportunities for substantial progress in the peace talks between the parties.

The Secretary-General commends the role of the guarantors — Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Ecuador, Norway and Venezuela — in support of the negotiations, as well as the important role of the Catholic Church.  He reiterates the support of the United Nations towards all efforts that contribute to lasting peace in Colombia.

For information media. Not an official record.