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Dubai: A minute of silence was observed on Monday in the memory of Colombians who lost their lives at the hands of rebels in the guerrilla warfare that has ravaged Colombia.
"We are here to give our support for peace and support for the Colombian government. The problem with kidnappings and the fighting has been going on for 40 years. And it must stop," said Pilar Osorno, who participated in the gathering in Dubai.
While high-profile demonstrations took place in Europe, America and Asia, the one in Dubai was held on a smaller scale as 100 Colombians gathered at Knowledge Village.
The one-hour peaceful gathering was a cry against the injustices carried out by the FARC-EP (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Columbia-People's Army), which is the guerrilla group responsible for kidnappings and drug production.
Tired of wars
"The generation of the 1970s had to grow up living through so many wars until now and we are tired. Our parents cannot do much, so the responsibility lies with us to guarantee our security," said Andres Illera.
Colombians stood their ground as their flag was raised and the national anthem was played, followed by a speech encouraging the need for peace in Colombia and the necessity of the FARC to put an end to the violence that has dominated the country for 43 years.
"This was not a demonstration but a peaceful gathering because we respect the laws of the UAE and do not want to offend the authorities in any way. All we want is to promote peace in our country," said Eider Rua Giraldo, one of the event organisers.
He said that participants signed a petition throughout the gathering to show their support for peace, which will be sent to the Colombian government.
"I have always been aware of this problem and know that even though I cannot do much, by participating in this event and signing the petition is the best thing I can do to help spread peace," said 16-year-old student Veronica Salacar.
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