|
UNITED NATIONS, July 16-- The Security Council on Thursday called for the advancement of the peace process in Colombia and voiced concern over violence, including that against ex-combatants. In a press statement, the members of the Security Council reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with Colombia to support the implementation of the peace agreement between the government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The council members expressed their serious concern about the continued threats, attacks and killings targeting community and social leaders, as well as those targeting former FARC members. They underlined the need for the fuller use of the security guarantees mechanisms in the peace agreement, the extension of integrated civilian and security state presence to conflict-affected regions, and for the perpetrators of threats and violence to be brought to justice. They noted with concern that insecurity had forced several groups of ex-combatants to abandon their locations of residence, and called for efforts to ensure the physical protection of former combatants. The council members welcomed efforts by the Colombian authorities to promote inclusive development as an important element of stable and lasting peace. They stressed the importance of implementing all aspects of the peace agreement, including rural reform, political participation, countering illicit drugs, and transitional justice. | 
