Ban commends Colombian Government and FARC-EP for concluding modified peace agreement

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has commended the efforts by the Government of Colombia and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia- People's Army (FARC-EP) to conclude a modified peace agreement that incorporates many of the proposals of the groups representing Colombians who voted “No” in the 2 October plebiscite, Mr. Ban's spokesperson said today.

The Secretary-General also acknowledged the many groups and individuals in Colombian society who came forth with proposals to modify the texts and who took part constructively in the dialogue process, the spokesperson said in a statement.

“Throughout this exercise, Colombians have listened to one another and have reaffirmed their collective desire for peace. They now have a new opportunity to go forward on this road to peace more unified than before,” the statement said.

The Secretary-General also commended the parties for maintaining their firm commitment to the cease-fire and cessation of hostilities, and reaffirmed the support of the United Nations for the peace process and hopes that the focus of efforts can turn as soon as possible to the implementation of a final peace agreement, the statement added.