FOMER PRESIDENT CLINTON'S COMMENTS ON THE PEACE

UNCLAS BOGOTA 006057

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: KMDR KPAO OPRC PREL SNAR PGOV CO
SUBJECT: FOMER PRESIDENT CLINTON'S COMMENTS ON THE PEACE
PROCESS


1. (U) During former President Clinton's June 22 visit to
Colombia, a reporter for national television network Caracol
asked him if he supported the peace processes with the
paramilitaries and the guerrilla groups. Clinton stated:

"Of course, so long as they understand there will be zero
tolerance when it comes to the death of innocent people. I
believe President Uribe left that very clear. You are doing
a good job. Violence, kidnappings and illicit crops have
decreased. So you are heading in the right direction. I
hope you (Colombia) will be able to create conditions so
that there can be a political exit to the conflict in which
all groups (FARC, ELN, paramilitaries) may create a peaceful
future. Together, you can solve it without violence. And
Colombia can be a great country with a cocaine-free
economy."


WOOD