In this file photo dated May 11, 2022, representatives of the United Nations talk with coca growers in Caño Indio, Catatumbo, municipality of Tibú, Colombia. (PHOTO / AFP)
HAVANA — The Colombian government and the guerrilla group National Liberation Army (ELN) on Tuesday resumed peace talks here with both sides voicing hope for a ceasefire agreement.
"We are sitting at the negotiating table to find real solutions in a country overwhelmed by more than six decades of war," said Colombian Senator Maria Jose Pizarro, a member of the government's negotiating delegation.
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said the two sides can rely on the Cuban government's efforts to guarantee the success of the peace talks
The talk on Tuesday marked the start of the third round of negotiations and a ceasefire agreement.
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Pablo Beltran, head of the ELN delegation, said the rebel group was committed to Colombia and reached for peace.
"Winds of change are blowing everywhere in Colombia, which is why social movements, intellectuals and various sectors opposed to an eternal war are being called on to play a more fundamental role," said Beltran.
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said the two sides can rely on the Cuban government's efforts to guarantee the success of the peace talks.
"We reaffirm our country's willingness to contribute to the success of this round of talks," he added.
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The ELN is Colombia's oldest remaining guerrilla group. The first round of talks took place in November 2021, followed by a second round in February 2023.
