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Delivered by: Mrs. Ameirah AlHefeiti, Deputy Permanent Representative

Mr. President,

At the outset, I thank the briefers for their valuable insights, and I express our support to you, Mr. Carlos Massieu for your efforts in Colombia. I welcome the participation of His Excellency Mr. Álvaro Leyva Durán, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Colombia in today’s meeting.

Mr. President,

At a time of increasing tensions and crises around the world, preserving and continuing to build on the peace achievements of many countries has become an urgent necessity, such as the final peace agreement, which represents a clear example of the power of dialogue.

As such, we welcome continued efforts by President Gustavo Petro to fully and comprehensively implement the Final Peace Agreement, as it will be critical to building on Colombia’s significant progress to ensure sustainable and lasting peace. This includes the administration’s commitment to important mechanisms, such as the National Commission on Security Guarantees and the Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion and Verification of the Implementation of the Final Agreement, as well as to driving inclusivity such as gender parity reforms, the new Ministry of Equality and the National Youth Council. We look forward to continued commitment in this regard. 

Community-based coexistence and reintegration efforts remain a fundamental tool to protect the hard-won progress of former combatants and address the persistent security concerns in Colombia, including violence against community leaders. Developing local strategies that include former combatants and youth, parallel to implementing the security guarantees of the final agreement, can undoubtably contribute to securing peace in communities. In this regard, we commend the ongoing development of reintegration action plans and strategies across municipalities in coordination with local authorities, former combatants and communities. We are hopeful that these efforts, in conjunction with measures in pursuit of broader peace, can advance Colombia on its path towards building a peaceful future. 

Mr. President,

We are encouraged by the people of Colombia in their steadfast dedication to reconciliation, and the President’s commitment to the implementation of the recommendations of the final report of the Truth Commission. The report, as well as the other elements of the Comprehensive System of Truth, Justice, Reparations and Non-Repetition, remains an important pillar in reconciliation in Colombia.  This includes the expanded focus of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace in its cases.

In conclusion, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to supporting Colombia in its journey to achieve sustainable peace and stability. We also reaffirm our full support for the UN Verification Mission in Colombia and its efforts.

I thank you.