Switzerland expresses its joy at the news of the release of the 15 people who had been held hostage by FARC for several years. We are especially happy that the French-Colombian citizen, Ingrid Betancourt, has been freed after more than six years in captivity. We congratulate the Government of Colombia on its success in securing the safe rescue of the hostages without casualty. 

We share the joy of the families of the individuals who have been released but also the pain of those who continue to be denied freedom, in particular those who have been held hostage for many years. Switzerland calls on the FARC to release all the hostages as quickly as possible. 

We will pursue our efforts to secure the release of all the hostages in the hope that our efforts will contribute to a permanent solution and to peace for all Colombians.

Release of Ingrid Betancourt in Colombia