The latest round of the FARC-Colombian government peace talks kicked off in Havana on February 2, with the guerrilla delegation tabling a number of proposals. The Government delegation retorted by saying the rebels need to back up talk with action.
Highlights include:
•The FARC said they will “transform into a political movement” after the 50-plus year conflict ends.
•The guerrillas reiterated their call on the Government to agree to a bilateral ceasefire.
•FARC leaders in Havana proposed that 3 percent of Colombia’s GDP be used to compensate conflict victims.
•Government delegation called on the rebels to remove anti-personnel landmines in areas they control. More than 10,000 people have been maimed or killed by landmines in Colombia’s internal conflict.
By Mark Kennedy