UN Security Council welcomes peace achievements in Colombia

UNITED NATIONS, Nov. 30 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Security Council on Thursday hailed progress in the peace process involving the Colombian government and the country's largest rebel group, particularly the disarmament of the rebel group.

The Security Council welcomed the successful completion of the laying down of arms of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) to UN monitors in August this year, which represents a major milestone in the transition from war to peace, said the council in a press statement.

The council congratulated the parties for the remarkable achievements of the peace process and applauded their leadership and commitment to implementing the agreement over the past 12 months which has brought to an end over 50 years of conflict, said the statement.

Colombia's peace process has sparked high hopes and expectations around the world and continues to provide inspiration for those seeking to end conflicts elsewhere, it said.

The council reiterated their full support for the parties as they now seek to turn the end of the conflict into a stable and lasting peace by working to fully implement the peace agreement beyond the laying down of arms, said the statement.

They noted the importance of advancing the re-incorporation of former FARC combatants into civilian life with a comprehensive strategy and concrete action plans and resources to enable success.

They also noted the importance of addressing the security situation in the former conflict zones by increasing state presence and governance.

As part of the peace agreement signed by the government and the FARC in November 2016, the government has pledged to invest in the country's agricultural sector and carry out land reforms.

The rebels vowed to renounce armed conflicts and pursue political change at polls. Enditem