Colombian Insurgency, Gov't Peace Talks Continue in Havana

Peace talks here between the government of Juan Manuel Santos and the longest standing guerrilla force in Colombia are focused today on the problem of drug trafficking.

Both sides have expressed optimism and interest in moving forward with the utmost speed on this crucial issue, in the 25th round of talks underway in this capital since 2012.

The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia-People's Army (FARC-EP) and the Executive branch of that country expect to reach a rapprochement on the subject of illegal crops, consumption, public health, and the trafficking of drugs.

At the beginning of the current segment yesterday, the spokesman for the FARC-EP, Jesus Santrich, stated that there are some areas of convergence in the three sections where the issue is addressed.

Talks are taking place amid the electoral runup to the Colombian presidential elections, scheduled for May 25, in a tense environment due to numerous scandals.

Accusations regarding illegal financing, espionage, and sabotage affecting the best placed candidates at polls have surfaced in recent weeks.