Statement by the Spokesperson on the joint statement issued by the Government of Colombia and the FARC-EP

The joint statement issued today in Havana by the Government of Colombia and the FARC-EP reflects once again the firm commitment of both parties to build a lasting peace in Colombia.

The European Union highlights the importance of the national dialogue convened by President Santos and welcomes the willingness of the parties to work quickly to address concerns of different sectors of society in relation to the peace agreement following the result of the plebiscite.

There is now a real opportunity for all Colombians to unite in a common pursuit of the end of violence and durable peace. The EU hopes that all parties engage constructively in these dialogues and commit to paving the way to a strengthened peace deal with broader popular support.

The continuation of the bilateral and definitive cease fire and the role of the tripartite mechanism in monitoring and verification, as well as the advancement of confidence building measures, are a clear sign of the determination of the parties to maintain security and stability in these decisive moments for the country.

The EU will continue to play an active role in supporting the building of peace in Colombia. We will work with the Colombian Government, with all political forces and with civil society to encourage all new efforts, both in Havana and Bogotá in pursuit of lasting peace. The Colombian Peace Process stays a beacon of hope for all on the peaceful resolution of armed conflicts and was recognised as such by the Norwegian Nobel Committee when awarding the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize to President Santos.