The World - News from Feb. 20, 1989

Colombia’s leftist Patriotic Union party, in what was seen as a significant policy change, called on rebel groups to end guerrilla activities and make concrete peace proposals. The government insists that it will only open talks with the rebels once they prove they are serious about seeking peace, but the Patriotic Union and other opposition parties want talks without prior conditions. Party President Bernardo Jaramillo said: “The guerrillas must realize that it is not possible to achieve a military triumph in this country. The only solution to Colombia’s violence is to negotiate away from arrogant positions and offer concessions.”