In times marked by so many crises and conflicts, the news from Colombia about successful conclusion of peace negotiations in Havana is much more than a ray of hope. This is a historic moment for Colombia, as well as for all of Latin America.

I congratulate President Juan Manuel Santos and his government on this great achievement. We rejoice with the people of Colombia that, with yesterday’s agreement, the foundation has been laid for an end to the bloodshed of the past decades.

The focus must now be on rapidly getting to work on implementing the agreement, and on involving all parts of Colombian society in efforts to achieve peace and reconciliation.

I hope the success of the Havana talks will also provide impetus for the stalled negotiation process with the ELN.

Germany stands side-by-side with Colombia. We will continue to do our utmost, also through our Special Representative Tom Koenigs, to support the country’s great efforts to achieve sustainable and lasting peace.