Working for Human Rights and against drug traffickers, Ingrid Betancourt was a candidate in the presidential elections for the Green Oxygen Party. On 23 February 2002, she was kidnapped with Clara Rojas, her campaign director by FARC. Held now for 4 years Ingrid Betancourt is along with thousands of others, a hostage of the conflict that has raged in Colombia since 1964. Astrid Betancourt, her sister, relates the story of how she awaits her sister's return.

On 12 December 2005, France, Switzerland and Spain made a proposal for a 'humanitarian exchange". Can you give us an update on that proposal?

Contrary to what is reported by the media, FARC have not refused this proposal. The kidnappers asked for a meeting with representatives from the three proposing countries to examine the proposal. If FARC do not recognise President Uribe as a representative in any negotiations, other institutions could intervene.

We also await proof of life, promised by FARC.

In the last two videos that were released Ingrid issued political messages and ideas to guide us in our actions.

Describe the current campaign. What part can the French nation play in this struggle for freedom?

Thanks to the public campaign guided by the support committees, FARC are aware of Ingrid's reputation internationally. This mobilisation guarantees Ingrid's survival. FARC cannot endanger her physical well being without being banished forever by the International Community. The people of France have already played a vital part, based on the principles that are fundamental in France: the appreciation of dignity and respect for the human being. Just after her kidnapping, the kidnappers said that they " would deprive her of her life" if agreement had not been reached within a year. Thanks to the campaign carried out by the French, four years after her kidnapping, Ingrid is alive. Of the 80 support committees worldwide, 50 are in France. People from all walks of life and all political beliefs have campaigned together.

What can the government do?

The French government has been involved from the beginning. It is aware of the efforts of French people. Initially the government trusted the statements made by the Colombian government. Then it chose to intervene more directly by ensuring there was a representative on the ground in Colombia. Finally, government action became more intense thanks to a European initiative with Spain and Switzerland. Today, these three countries are the main protagonists working for freedom for my sister and the other political hostages.