Maduro: Venezuela will be guarantor in Colombian peace talks

By JORGE RUEDA
Associated Press

CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro says his government will act as a “guarantor” in peace talks between Colombia’s government and the National Liberation Army rebel group that are slated to begin later this year. Maduro said on national television that he had accepted a request by Colombian President Gustavo Petro to take on the diplomatic role, adding that his socialist government was interested in fomenting peace, security and stability in Colombia and “throughout the continent.” Previous peace talks between Colombia’s government and rebel groups have included the participation of “guarantor nations” that have acted as observers of the negotiations.