The UN Verification Mission has been critical to the implementation of the 2016 Peace Agreement in Colombia: UK statement at the UN Security Council

The United Kingdom reaffirms its unwavering support for the 2016 Peace Agreement.

Over the past decade, the UN Verification Mission has been critical to the implementation of the Peace Agreement, supporting signatories and communities with reintegration and reconciliation.

The Mission's mandate should evolve in line with the situation on the ground, so that it can fully fulfil its primary objective of monitoring implementation of the peace process.

The resolution before us therefore focuses the Mission's tasks on fundamental drivers of conflict in Colombia, while continuing to call for full implementation of the Peace Agreement.

The United Kingdom will continue to champion transitional justice in Colombia, which remains vital for reconciliation and sustainable peace.

This includes our support to the Special Jurisdiction for Peace, which issued landmark sentences this year. We applaud the work of the SJP and welcome the progress being made on justice and accountability for victims.

We will also continue to support an inclusive approach to peace in Colombia. Including for Indigenous and Afro-Colombians, who have deep knowledge of their territories, cultures, and conflict dynamics. This is crucial to building lasting peace.

We urge the Council to continue its longstanding partnership for peace with the Colombian people, and we hope Council members will join us in voting for this resolution.