WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) issued the following statement after the Colombian government officially approved a peace deal with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) this week:

“It is never easy to make peace and there is still much work to be done, but I welcome the announcement that Colombia has ratified the peace agreement with the FARC rebels, officially bringing 52 years of armed conflict to a close.   I extend my congratulations to all who were involved in the process.

“The finalization of a peace deal is a monumental step.  However, much work still remains.  The peace implementation phase will require the same dedication and candor that led to this agreement.  The United States stands ready to support our Colombian partners in their efforts to provide greater prosperity and security to the Colombian people and to ensure that this is a just and lasting peace.”