Statement by the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Sérgio França Danese, at the Ambassadorial-Level Meeting on Peacebuilding in Colombia with the participation of H.E. Ms. Laura Sarabia, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia - April 23rd, 2025 (delivered in Spanish)

Madam Chair,

Brazil welcomes this opportunity to reflect on the peacebuilding process in Colombia one day after the Security Council session on the situation in the country. My delegation welcomes Her Excellency Ms. Laura Sarabia, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia.

Through her, we commend the Government of Colombia for its constructive engagement with the Peacebuilding Commission. This commitment has been demonstrated in various ways, most notably through President Petro's presence at an Ambassador-level session dedicated to Colombia in July 2024 under Brazil's presidency of the PBC.

The Commission is a trusted and effective platform for dialogue and cooperation with Colombia. Brazil values the country's willingness to share its experience with the Commission and to seek further cooperation and support to advance a peace process that serves as an example for the entire international community. This meeting, therefore, reflects the spirit of solidarity and mutual learning fostered by the PBC.

Colombia's case is exemplary in combining national efforts for peace and security, accompanied by the Security Council, and peacebuilding strategies supported by the PBC—all under the leadership of the Colombian Government.

We are convinced of the Colombian Government's commitment to the full implementation of the 2016 Final Peace Agreement and the objectives of the "Total Peace" policy. The integrated approach to addressing the root causes of conflict — such as social inequality, territorial marginalization, and the legacy of violence — is both ambitious and necessary.

Brazil reiterates its full support for Colombia and emphasizes the importance of national leadership and ownership at every stage of this complex process. We congratulate the Colombian people for the tangible progress made in various dimensions of the peace process, from rural reform and transitional justice to the reintegration of ex-combatants. At the same time, we recognize the persistent challenges, such as protecting social leaders and former combatants, consolidating State presence in conflict-affected areas, and closing development gaps. These are not only obstacles but also opportunities for profound structural transformation.

In this regard, Brazil highlights the crucial role of the Peacebuilding Fund in supporting Colombia's peace agenda, primarily through initiatives that integrate development and sustainable peace. For example, the Nature for Peace project shows how to address socio-environmental conflicts and promote reintegration and economic recovery. We also welcome the PBF's support for Colombia's South-South Cooperation Strategy, which facilitates knowledge exchange on peacebuilding among countries facing similar challenges and solutions.

In synergy with the Fund, the PBC has shown its ability to connect political, technical, and financial support. Brazil believes this integrated, results-oriented approach is essential for consolidating lasting peace in Colombia. Finally, we reaffirm the importance of the participation of women, youth, minorities, and marginalized communities in the peace process. Peacebuilding must be inclusive to be sustainable.

From the PBC, Brazil reiterates its commitment to support Colombia in its efforts to promote peace.

Thank you.