Media Release
FA26 / 28 February 2002
Breakdown of Peace in Colombia
The Australian Government is concerned about the collapse of the
peace talks between the Colombian Government and the Revolutionary
Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and the deterioration in the security
situation. The escalation of violence and human rights violations
are matters of grave concern.
In particular, I note the reported kidnapping last weekend of Mrs
Ingrid Betancourt, a candidate in the May Presidential elections.
Mrs Betancourt and five legislators, including the President of the
Colombian Senate's Peace Commission, are being held by the FARC.
These people and all others held against their will by the FARC and
other rebel groups should be released immediately.
In December 2001, I designated the FARC and the two other rebel groups
operating in Colombia - the National Liberation Army (ELN) and the
United Self-Defence Forces of Colombia (AUC) - as terrorist groups
and Australian law now prohibits any dealings in the assets of these
groups.
The Government recognises the efforts of the Colombian Government
and the international community to secure lasting peace and remains
hopeful that this will be achieved.
We have today updated our travel advice for Colombia. This advice
can be found on the Department's website at www.dfat.gov.au/consular
or by phoning the Department's Consular Hot Line on 1300 555 135.
Media inquiries: Julie McDonald (Departmental) 02 6261
1555
Local Date:
Sunday, 05-Jul-2009 00:39:43 EST
