John Perry
Question:153 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the EU and the US have had discussions in relation to the situation in Colombia and in particular on the drugs issue. [6544/03]
Written Answers - Human Rights Issues.
The European Union and the United States hold regular consultations on Latin America. The situation in Colombia, including the problem of illicit drugs, features prominently. Both the EU and the US support President Uribes efforts to strengthen democratic institutions in Colombia, as well as to fight terrorism and illicit drugs trafficking. We also agree that these efforts must be implemented with full respect for human rights, the rule of law and democratic principles.
At its meeting on 10 December 2002, the General Affairs and External Relations Council confirmed the EU's support for efforts to reform Colombia's institutions and to develop a fully functioning democratic State throughout Colombia based on respect for human rights and the welfare and safety of all its citizens. The Council expressed its support to the Colombian Government in its fight against terrorism as well as against illegal drugs trafficking.
The Council reiterated its full support for the efforts of President Uribe in seeking a negotiated solution to the conflict in Colombia and underlined the importance it attached to the contribution of the UN Special Adviser on Colombia, Mr. James Lemoyne. The EU stands ready to assist the Colombian Government in reaching a peaceful settlement.
The Council expressed its deep concern at the deteriorating humanitarian situation and the situation of human rights in Colombia and urged the Colombian Government to increase its efforts in these areas, and to take action against impunity and collusion.
The Council also welcomed the political and economic reforms announced by President Uribe, with a view to addressing inequalities within the country and promoting sustainable development. In this connection, the Council called upon the Colombian Government to recognise and support the role of civil society and non-governmental organisations as important stakeholders in carrying out these reforms and in moving towards a negotiated settlement of the internal armed conflict.
The EU itself is already implementing a substantial programme of socio-economic and insti tutional support in Colombia, aimed at promoting and protecting respect for human rights, humanitarian law and fundamental freedoms, improving the living conditions of the local populations, encouraging the cultivation of alternative crops and the protection of bio-diversity, and supporting the introduction of structural reforms in all fields that fuel armed conflict.
At its 10 December 2002 meeting, the Council called on member states and the Commission to enhance this EU work programme, in close consultation with the Government of Colombia, the UN and the international community.