The World - News from July 29, 1988

Colombian President Virgilio Barco Vargas said that his government will not negotiate with leftist guerrillas at church-sponsored peace talks in Bogota today and will arrest any insurgents who show up. His decision dashed hopes for an early negotiated settlement to a guerrilla war that has killed at least 75,000 people in the last 25 years. Barco acted after military leaders criticized the proposed talks. A guerrilla spokesman said the government decision could be a mistake. However, Barco said his government will study any recommendations coming out of the talks, which are to include former presidents, 20 congressmen and church leaders.