GUE/NGL President Gabi Zimmer has strongly condemned the decision of Colombian President Santos to suspend peace talks with the FARC guerrillas in Havana.

She said: “When President Santos visited the European Parliament two weeks ago he rejected moves towards a ceasefire. It is therefore totally unacceptable that he has decided to suspend the peace talks as these talks are only at a standstill because of this decision not to approve a ceasefire.”

The GUE/NGL calls for the peace talks to restart and for them to be open to other guerrilla groups such as the ELN.

The GUE/NGL calls on the EU to: support the Colombian peace process; assume an objective and neutral stance on the conflict; recognise the responsibilities and obligations of all parties in the conflict; and, demand both parties to uphold the peace talks under any circumstances.

The GUE/NGL considers that any economic support for the peace process should come with two conditions: the effective signature of a comprehensive peace agreement; and the establishment of international verification mechanisms of its effective implementation.

GUE/NGL Press Contacts:
Emily Macintosh +32 470 85 05 08
David Lundy +32 470 85 05 09
European United Left / Nordic Green Left
European Parliamentary Group