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<p>We are aware of reports of killings and subsequent displacement of civilians in
the Norte de Santander border areas of Cúcuta and Tibú in mid-July, following competition
between rival armed groups for control of illicit economies and territory. The UK
remains most concerned about the continuing presence of such groups in Colombia, and
the serious impact their crimes and other activities have on local people and environments,
particularly during this challenging time.</p><p>President Duque's Government has
publicly committed to implementing the Peace Accords of 2016 in their entirety, and
we remain steadfast in our support of the Colombian authorities as they seek to ensure
sustainable peace. We are proud to be the penholder on the issue at the UN Security
Council. Most recently, our Permanent Representative to the UN spoke on the continued
presence of illegal armed groups in Colombia at the UN Security Council on 14 July.</p><p>We
have committed almost £53 million over 5 years through the Conflict, Stability and
Security Fund to support the implementation of the peace process in Colombia, including
across conflict-affected regions such as Norte de Santander. Many of the humanitarian
organisations supported by the United Kingdom are operating in the region and working
to provide support to those displaced. We will continue to monitor the situation.</p>
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