On the establishment of the peace dialogue table between the Government of Colombia and the ELN on 7 February in Quito

ON the 7 February 2017, the public phase of peace negotiations between the Government of Colombia and the Ejército de Liberación Nacional [National Liberation Army] (ELN) started in Quito.

For the European Union, it was a positive development in Colombia's quest for lasting and sustainable peace. They encouraged both parties to intensify efforts in a spirit of mutual responsibility and compromise, with a view to reaching a comprehensive agreement.

While the peace agreement with the FARC was already being implemented, all actors in Colombia must continue to fulfil their responsibility for the peace process. The European Union insured that it would continue to support the Colombian government in its efforts to bring durable peace, security and prosperity to all Colombians.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background Information: EU-Colombia relations http://www.europeansources.info/record/eu-colombia-relations/

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