Bogotá, June 18 (SP). Considering the visit to Colombia of the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial killings and arbitrary executions Philip Alston, the National Government informs:

1. Its appreciation for the recognition made by the Special Rapporteur of Colombia’s progress in the field of security in the last years, particularly the efforts to investigate and penalize those responsible for extrajudicial killings. Also, for acknowledged the discipline and effectiveness of the Colombian Army.

2. From the moment the National Government knew about the first cases, judicial institutions were asked to investigate to clarify the facts and penalize those responsible.

3. The National Government also asked to transfer denounces of violations of Human Rights, allegedly made by members of the Armed Forces, to ordinary justice. Today circumstances as the ones in Guaitarilla and Cajamarca on 2004; Jamundí on 2006, and Soacha last year are being investigated by the Ordinary Criminal Justice.

4. The President of the Republic, the Defense Minister and the Military and Police Leadership periodically take notice, through the media, of denounces about violations of Human Rights addressed by the community.

5. As a result of the measures implemented, this year there has not been a single case of that nature. The Government will remain alert to avoid new cases.

6. The Special Rapporteur received full access and support for the development of his work during his visit, taking into account the independence of his mission.

7. The calendar of visits, formulated by the Government, will continue during 2009 with the presence of rapporteurs for the rights of natives, for judicial independence and for human rights’ defenders.

The National Government reiterates its policy of zero tolerance with violations of human rights, and its commitment to face the challenges that still exist, with transparency and open to the public opinion and international community.