Colombian President Ivan Duque has met protest organizers in an effort to quell several days of unrest in the South American nation – but the talks ended without any clear indication of whether they will continue.
The president and the National Strike Committee met Tuesday and discussed 13 protester demands.
Colombian Vice President Martha Lucía Ramírez says protesters want a separate dialogue with Duque while the government prefers what it calls a “national conversation” with all sectors of society.
Students place a Colombian national flag at the site where Dilan Cruz was injured during clashes between anti-government protesters and security forces in Bogota, Colombia, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019. Cruz, an 18-year-old high school student, died two days after being hit in the head by a projectile reportedly fired by riot police during a protest. His case has resonated in Colombian society, touching off a debate about excessive use of force and making him a symbol for many young protesters. (AP PhotoFernando Vergara)
She described it as a “constructive” meeting and said the government has invited them to return whenever they wish to become part of the national dialogue.
Union organizer Diógenes Orjuela says protesters see their talks as a separate undertaking.
Protests began in Colombia nearly a week ago.
Candles are lit where Dilan Cruz was injured during clashes between anti-government protesters and security forces, in Bogota, Colombia, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019. Cruz, an 18-year-old high school student, died two days after being hit in the head by a projectile reportedly fired by riot police during a protest. (AP PhotoFernando Vergara)
Demonstrators bang on pots during a vigil at the site where Dilan Cruz was injured during clashes between anti-government protesters and security forces, in Bogota, Colombia, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019. Cruz, an 18-year-old high school student, died two days after being hit in the head by a projectile reportedly fired by riot police during a protest. (AP PhotoFernando Vergara)