US pleased by Duque's peace efforts in Colombia

WASHINGTON (AA) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Colombia President Ivan Duque discussed ongoing unrest and the ways of ensuring peace in Colombia during a telephone call Wednesday, according to the State Department.

"Secretary Pompeo welcomed the national conversation that President Duque has convened in Colombia in response to recent demonstrations," spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement.

Describing the step as an opportunity to establish "advance peace, security, and prosperity" in the country, the statement emphasized U.S. steadfast support for the Colombian government in terms of its effort to facilitate peaceful democratic expression.

Last week, protests began in Colombia against government policies affecting taxes on the rich, retirement pension rights and corruption.

Duque recently proposed a "great national dialogue" that aims to promote conversations with representatives of oversight bodies, including members of small and medium business unions and government officials.

But the death of 18-yewar-old student Dilan Cruz, who died after being injured in clashes with riot police in Bogota, risked prospects of expanded dialogue proposed by Duque as the Colombian Nationwide Strike Committee announced Wednesday a new wave of protests.