Miss Universe, the Colombian Paulina Vega, has not accepted an invitation by rebel group FARC to visit ongoing peace talks yet. The beauty queen told The New York Times she will consider a visit after an invitation by the government.
In a statement sent to one of the world’s most influential newspapers, Vega said her intention for the coming year is to act as an “ambassador for my country, promoting Colombian culture and all of the opportunities it has to offer.”
Following her victory at Miss Universe in January, she told Colombian media that “I am willing to go to Cuba so that they sign peace.”
However, after the FARC’s invitation to visit so the rebels could “show her the progress made in the process of talks” the beauty queen said she would prefer approval by President Juan Manuel Santos.
“If he and the Colombian government think I can be of any help, I remain ready and willing to assist in any and all areas that will help promote further peace, stability and progress.” said Vega.
The FARC and the government have been engaged in peace talks since 2012. While enjoying broad international support, the talks are controversial inside Colombia where the Santos centrist administration and the conservative opposition have been fighting over the legitimacy of the talks.
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