Cardin Statement on Colombia-FARC Ceasefire Agreement

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, released the following statement in response to the signing of a bilateral ceasefire between the Government of Colombia and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and after meeting with Colombian Ambassador to the U.S., Juan Carlos Pinzón: 

“I’m greatly encouraged by today’s historic announcement of a bilateral ceasefire between the Government of Colombia and the FARC.” said Cardin. “After more than 50 years of internal armed conflict that has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands and left millions displaced, the Colombian people deserve to live in a country at peace. With the prospect of a final accord on the horizon, we must remember that to ensure a sustainable peace accord, its implementation must be accompanied by serious commitments to accountability and justice” 

“Here in the U.S. Senate, Democrats and Republicans remain committed to supporting our Colombian partners during this historic achievement, as we have through 16 years of partnership under Plan Colombia. I look forward to working with the Government of Colombia to determine how the Congress can best support the post-conflict development process in the months and years ahead.”  

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U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, met with Colombian Ambassador to the U.S. Juan Carlos Pinzón in the Capitol Thursday.