Important to continue the dialogue in Colombia
Historical archive
Published under: Solberg's Government
Publisher: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Press release | Date: 05/10/2016 | Last updated: 07/10/2016
Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende welcomes the continued dialogue between various political actors in Colombia following the referendum on the peace agreement. ‘I hope that it will be possible to find a solution to the difficult situation that has arisen. Norway will continue to offer support for the peace process,’ he said.
In Sunday’s referendum, a majority of Colombians rejected the peace agreement that was signed in Cartagena on 26 September. The agreement addresses the root causes of the conflict and contains provisions on the disarmament of the FARC. It prepares the way for broader political participation, better access to land, and stronger efforts to tackle illicit drugs. The rights of civilians affected by the conflict have been given a central place in the agreement.
‘The civilians who have been suffering want to see the end of a conflict that has lasted for several generations. It is positive that the Colombian Government and the FARC are maintaining the ceasefire, and it is important that they continue to do so,’ said Mr Brende.
The peace talks were formally launched in Oslo in October 2012, and have since been held in Havana. Norway, together with Cuba, has facilitated the negotiations. The armed conflict in Colombia has lasted for more than 50 years, and has cost the lives of hundreds of thousands of Colombians. More than six million people are internally displaced.