Secretary-General Welcomes Creation of United Nations Mission in Colombia Tasked with Verifying Peace Agreement Commitments

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

The Secretary-General welcomes the establishment of a new United Nations political mission in Colombia tasked with verifying the commitments in the peace agreement relating to the reintegration of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia–People's Army (FARC-EP) and the implementation of security guarantees for the group and conflict-affected communities.  The United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia will begin its activities on 26 September, following completion of the current United Nations ceasefire and laying down of arms verification mandate.

The Secretary-General is confident that the Verification Mission will contribute to building trust and supporting the parties’ efforts to meet their mutual commitments throughout the reintegration phase, which is critical to consolidating peace.

The Secretary-General reiterates the support of the United Nations towards the successful conclusion of the peace process in Colombia.