Doha, Qatar – A significant step towards lasting peace in Colombia was taken today with the signing of the Doha Agreement between the Colombian government and the Gaetanista Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (AGC). The ceremony, held in Doha, marks a crucial commitment to peaceful resolution between the two parties.
A joint statement released by Qatar, Norway, Spain, and Switzerland, the mediating nations, commended both the Colombian government and the AGC for their dedication to achieving a peaceful settlement. The mediating group praised their “constructive engagement and willingness to compromise in their pursuit of a sustainable solution through dialogue.”
Doha has played a pivotal role in facilitating peace talks between the Colombian government and the AGC, reflecting Qatar’s commitment to resolving conflicts through dialogue and peaceful means, and to fostering international peace and stability.
The initial round of negotiations, hosted in Doha from September 14th to 18th, resulted in an agreement to hold further discussions in the Qatari capital.
The AGC, with an estimated 7,500 fighters, is considered the largest armed group in Colombia following the historic peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in 2016. The group poses a significant security challenge to the current left-leaning government.
Since assuming office in 2022, Colombian President Gustavo Petro has prioritized negotiating disarmament and demobilization agreements with various armed groups operating within the country. This agreement signifies meaningful progress.
