President Uribe's offer has surprised his country at a time when his position had lately become more radical and because he had always maintained a hard line stance (with regard to a humanitarian exchange). In the opinion of some observers, the President has decided on a policy change under pressure from both the International community and the general public.

First reactions from Anncol, a press agency close to FARC, has raised fears that this time it will be the turn of FARC to refuse to do a deal. In an article just published by Anncol, Uribe's offer has been referred to as " deceitful", "spiteful," "malicious" and "small-minded".

"It has all the appearance of a promise made during an election campaign," stated Deputy Wilson Borja. President Uribe is indeed campaigning to reform the Constitution so that he can serve a second term in office in 2006 and seems to have noted recent changes in public opinion. Until now, the people of Colombia were not in favour of a humanitarian agreement but currently the majority are now disposed to such an option, according to a recent survey.

The reactions of the families of the hostages are mixed: some are enthusiastic, others more sceptical.

" I welcome this offer with infinite hope but also with caution. I am so afraid of having my hopes raised only to have them dashed by a negative answer from FARC.

I do hope there will be a positive answer," stated Ms Yolanda Pulecio, mother of Ingrid Betancourt in an interview with AFP