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Colombian Rebels to Observe Ceasefire Amid Coronavirus Outbreak

VOA News

   Colombia's left-wing National Liberation Army rebel groupsays itwill
   observeamonth-long unilateral cease-fire beginning Wednesday.

   In a statementreleased Monday, the (ELN) rebelsdescribedthe
   cease-fireasa "humanitarian gesture" while the country is in the grips
   of the coronavirus pandemic.

   UN Secretary-General AntonioGuterreswelcomed therebels'gesture
   following his appeal for worldwide cease-fires.

   The UN leader called on other armed groups in Colombia to take
   similaraction so authorities can focus on fighting the pandemic.

   So far, more than 700 people have tested positive for thenovel
   coronavirus in Colombia.At least14 have died, so far.

   In addition to the cease-fire the National Liberation Army
   rebelgroupsaid itis receptive to resuming suspended peace negotiations
   with the government.

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