The Secretary-General commends the Colombian people on the holding of Sunday's presidential elections and looks forward to continue working  with the Government of President Juan Manuel Santos in ongoing  efforts to promote peace, human rights and development for all Colombians.

Today, Colombia is closer than ever to ending the hemisphere’s longest armed conflict through negotiations. This is an historic opportunity that should not be missed. The Secretary-General encourages the parties to bring the peace talks to a successful conclusion as soon as possible, building on the important achievements to date. He encourages the parties to listen to the voices of civil society, whose input and support are key to a durable peace.

The United Nations remains committed to supporting -- as requested by the parties -- the conclusion of the negotiations and implementation of the agreements reached.