UNITED NATIONS, July 28 (Xinhua) -- The UN Security Council on Friday expressed its concern about the "continued insecurity" in the Colombian peace process, while acknowledging the progress already made.
In a press statement, the council said its members are concerned about "continued insecurity, drug trafficking and violence in some conflict-affected areas, including the surge in killings of community and social leaders" in Colombia.
The members noted the mechanisms established to address these challenges and urged the government of Colombia and all responsible security and civilian institutions to redouble their efforts to expand their presence in these areas.
They welcomed the signing of the national pact rejecting violence by President Juan Manuel Santos and President-elect Ivan Duque as well as key state institutions and political parties earlier this month.
The members reiterated the importance of a full political, legal and socio-economic reincorporation of the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia-People's Army (FARC-EP) members.
The security council reaffirmed its commitment to continuously working with Colombia as it implements the peace agreement in order to secure lasting peace in the months and years ahead.
The Colombian government reached a peace agreement in August 2016 with the FARC rebels, once the country's largest guerrilla group, after four years of negotiations.
However, the implementation of the peace deal has been facing challenges from many issues such as politics, security, development and social integration of former fighters.
The Colombian government also resumed earlier peace talks this year with the National Liberation Army, now the only remaining rebel force in the country, after months of suspension.
