Bogota, January 24 (RHC)-- French President Francois Hollande is in Bogota for a two-day visit to ratify the ongoing Colombian peace process between the state and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia. 

Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos welcomed his French counterpart on Monday, saying that “peace is possible thanks to the great support of countries like France.” 

Later, during a dinner at the Narino Presidential Palace, Santos stressed the need to combat global terrorism with intelligence, military might and ethical values.  During a speech, Santos said: “Terrorism, fanaticism and intolerance are global scourges we must fight with intelligence and military might ... but also with ethical and spiritual values.” 

“We can only beat hate, prejudice and discrimination when we can teach our youth... the values of tolerance, compassion and respect for diversity.” 

French President Francois Hollande agreed, saying that “there is no fatalism but hope,” adding that “if the world comes together, it will be able to fight for peace.” 

In response to criticism of the visit by main opposition legislator and former President Alvaro Uribe, Colombia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs María Holguín called the meeting “logical ... reasonable and normal,” El Heraldo reported.