For information only - not an official document
UNIS/CP/937
26 September 2016
The following is a statement from the Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Yury Fedotov on the formalization of the peace accord between the Colombian government and FARC-EP.
VIENNA, 26 September (UN Information Service) - As the Executive Director of UNODC, I pay the warmest of tributes to the Colombian government and to FARC-EP for accomplishing this decisive moment in your country's history.
My thanks also to the representatives of countries, international organizations and civil society who have helped to bring these negotiations to such a successful conclusion.
Due to your tireless dedication and determination, successive generations of women, children and men in Colombia will now be able to lead lives free from the terrible impact of conflict and hostility.
I offer the firm hope that the "Final Agreement for the Termination of the Conflict and for a stable and lasting Peace Building" will introduce a process of continuous peace building, increased security and prosperity for everyone in Colombia. It is richly deserved after more than 52 years of conflict.
UNODC offers its fullest support to the Colombian people and will proudly support the implementation of the peace agreement concerning the challenges of illicit drugs and confronting criminal organizations.
Together, we have worked diligently over many years on a broad range of projects and programmes, including alternative development strategies; but also to strengthen criminal justice reform and to counter money laundering and corruption.
I look forward to working with the Colombian people in the years to come to consolidate these efforts and to ensure that those most in need receive our technical assistance and support.
Once again, I congratulate you on this historic occasion that offers so many opportunities for the development of Colombia and the future of its people.
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For further information please contact:
David
Dadge
Spokesperson, UNODC
Phone: (+43 1) 26060-5629
Mobile: (+43-699) 1459-5629
Email: david.dadge[at]unvienna.org
