13/12/2004 (Agence Europe) - On Monday the EU expressed its serious concern at the human rights situation and lack of respect for international humanitarian law in Colombia, notably in connection with forced internal displacements. In the conclusions adopted on Monday (without debate) by the "external relations council", the EU calls on all parties involved in the internal conflict in Colombia to respect human rights. The "illegal" armed groups are called on to cease hostilities and make a commitment to a negotiated peace settlement and to immediately and unconditionally release their hostages. The Council also welcomes the decision of the Colombian government to pardon 23 members of FARC.