The announcement of a final peace agreement today in Havana between the FARC-EP and the Government of Colombia is reason for celebration. It is an historic and unique opportunity for peace in Colombia, which follows a long negotiation requiring great political will and perseverance.
I had a telephone conversation today with President Santos, who informed me of the historic developments. I pay tribute to his political leadership and vision, to the negotiating teams, to Cuba and Norway as guarantors, as well as to Venezuela and Chile as facilitating countries.
It is now for the Colombian people to decide on their own future through the plebiscite.
Many challenges lie ahead in the implementation of the agreement, which should pave the way for lasting peace in the country and be based on genuine national reconciliation and justice. It should also bring truth and reparations to the victims, who have endured so much loss and pain throughout the years of conflict.
The European Union has supported Colombia since the beginning of the peace process and will continue to stand by it during the post-conflict phase. I want to personally express all our support to the political courage which is needed to make peace and guarantee to Colombia that the European Union will continue to be at its side in this historic process.
As I announced to President Santos in Bogota during my visit on 25-26 May, the European Union will provide support to the implementation of the peace process with an overall package
of € 575 million.
Together with the Government we are already preparing new projects, which include peace education in the context of the Peace Agreement.
