Colombian militias to stand down

Nine far-right paramilitary groups forming the United Self-Defence Forces of Colombia have agreed to demobilise their 13,000 fighters and begin formal peace negotiations, the government said yesterday, describing it as a major step forward.

They hoped to complete the stand-down by December 2005.

The government's peace negotiator, Luis Carlos Restrepo, said: "The historic moment for the self-defence forces has ended. They are no longer necessary" - an admission that they once served a useful purpose.

Analysts say the government would have to take a firm hold of the country for the step to be effective.

President Alvaro Uribe transferred his office to the rebel-infested city of Arauca this week precisely to make the point that the state is present and is extending its control.

But he had to send his message from a military base protected by 5,000 men.