Varela in Colombia to witness signing of peace agreement

Monday, September 26th Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela was in Cartagena to witness the signing of the final peace agreement between the Colombian president, Juan Manuel Santos, and the leader of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) Rodrigo Londoño.

 The ceremony will bring an end to a war lasting over 50 years in the country.

President Varela said “The Government of the Republic of Panama would like to send a fraternal embrace the Colombian people and the government of Juan Manuel Santos on such a special day for Colombia, America, and the world” at the peace agreement signing in Cartagena which he attended with vice President and Foreign Minister Isabel de Saint Malo de Alvarado.

According to the president, the peace agreement brings an opportunity to close a chapter of pain and violence, one with many innocent victims. The signing offers the opening a new door for Colombia.

"Panama is here to support this effort of President Santos and his government honoring the memory of the men and women of the Colombian security forces," continued Varela. 

2 000 500 special guests attended the event, all dressed in white as a symbol of peace.

Security in Cartagena was increased to protect the 15 leaders and dozens of personalities from around the world attending the event.