Getting the Endgame Right in Colombia

Fourteen years ago in the Colombian town of Bojayá, FARC guerillas launched an explosive that landed on the roof of a Roman Catholic church, killing 79 men, women, and children who were huddled inside, seeking safety.  A tragedy of such proportions was hard to comprehend even in a nation inured to the brutalities of conflict. But an event two months ago was in its own way just as extraordinary: The FARC apologized to the people of Bojayá for the “misery and misfortune” it had caused and sought forgiveness.

Today, Colombia’s peace process is at a pivotal stage. When Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos visits Washington this week, President Obama and I will commend him for bringing his country closer than ever before to ending the war. We will discuss the tough issues that remain to be resolved at the negotiating table. And we will share plans to support Colombia as it moves into a new era. Secretary Kerry on Getting the Endgame Right in Colombia