15 September 2002
SECRETARY-GENERAL WELCOMES COLOMBIA’S EFFORTS AIMED AT STRENGTHENING
PROSPECTS FOR NEGOTIATED SETTLEMENT
The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:
The Secretary-General welcomes the efforts of the Colombian people and civil society leaders to strengthen prospects for a negotiated settlement to Colombia’s conflict.� The Secretary-General also strongly supports efforts to reduce civilian suffering, to increase respect for human rights and to reach humanitarian accords that protect Colombia’s people.� He urgently calls for the release of those kidnapped and reminds their captors that they are responsible for the well-being of these innocent civilians.� The Secretary-General hopes this “week of peace” will advance these worthy goals and assist Colombia in its search for reconciliation.
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