Italy welcomes Colombian government and ELN ceasefire

“Italy – with Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden and Switzerland – welcomes the enforcement today, 1 October, of the bilateral temporary ceasefire agreement between the Colombian government and the National Liberation Army (ELN). The five countries, members of the “Group of Countries for the Support, Accompaniment and Cooperation of the Negotiating Table” in Quito (GPAAC) congratulate the negotiating team on this milestone and hope that the ceasefire will in particular improve the humanitarian situation for the civilian population.”In the Colombian provinces most affected by the armed conflict, the ceasefire gives a chance to involve the people in the peace process. GPAAC calls on both parties to respect the terms, in order to show their willingness to reach a comprehensive and lasting peace in Colombia.”GPAAC also welcomes the support of the United Nations and the Catholic Church in the implementation of the ceasefire. As members of GPAAC, we confirm our total readiness to accompany and further support the peace negotiations between the Colombian government and the ELN.”