On the award of the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize to Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos: Statement by HR/VP Federica Mogherini

EU News 330/2016

Brussels, 07/10/2016

The path towards peace can be fraught with obstacles, but peace is always possible for those who dream of it and work hard for it. I congratulate my friend President Juan Manuel Santos of Colombia on being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 2016. This is also a tribute to all Colombians who seek peace and justice, and to the victims of the conflict who have endured so much suffering over 52 years of violence.

Once again, the Norwegian Nobel Committee is not simply acknowledging the efforts made towards peace: it is also charting the way ahead. The Committee restates what President Santos said on the night of the Plebiscite: the referendum was not a vote against peace.

This referendum outcome is no reason for giving up. Dialogue towards a new agreement has already restarted: we can only hope it will lead to a strengthened peace deal with broad popular support​, a deal that takes into account the concerns and the aspirations of all parties and of all the people of Colombia.

The European Union has supported the process so far: we will continue to encourage and accompany all efforts to open a new chapter in Colombia. Today we celebrate a great achievement for a man who has sought reconciliation since the very first day of his mandate. But the work towards a just and lasting peace in Colombia is not over yet.

Source and additional information:
http://eeas.europa.eu/headquarters/headquarters-homepage/11408/statement-by-hrvp-federica-mogherini-on-the-award-of-the-2016-nobel-peace-prize-to-colombian-president-juan-manuel-santos-_en

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