Statement by the Spokesperson on the announcement of a monitoring and verification mechanism in the Havana peace negotiations

The decision announced yesterday in Havana by the negotiating teams of the Colombian Government and the FARC requesting the United Nations to create a tripartite mechanism for the monitoring and the verification of the ceasefire and the laying down of arms brings the parties one important step closer to a final peace agreement.

The participation of Member States of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) as requested by the negotiating parties would demonstrate the commitment of countries in the region to helping overcome the oldest remaining conflict in the Western hemisphere.

The EU, actively engaged in the peace process with the High Representative's special envoy Eeamon Gilmore, is ready to support the United Nations and CELAC States in their efforts to put in place the verification mission.  Opportunities for peace can't be missed.

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