United Nations, June 17 (RHC-PL) -- UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon pledged on Monday to continue supporting the government of President Juan Manuel Santos in his efforts to promote peace in Colombia.

In a congratulatory message for his triumph in the second round of the presidential elections against right-winger rival Oscar Ivan Zuluaga, the UN chief said that now the country is closer than ever to reach through negotiations the end of the longest standing conflict in the Western Hemisphere.

“This is a historic opportunity that cannot be wasted,” said the UN chief, who congratulated Colombians as well for the victory.

He urged the parties, the Government and the guerrillas, to reach a satisfactory conclusion in the peace process, "as soon as possible."

We also urge you to listen to the voices of the civil society, a key sector for the success of the talks, said Ban.