Bogota - Colombia's largest left-wing rebel group, the Farc, says it is willing to talk to the new Colombian government.

The Farc leader known as Alfonso Cano said the Marxist rebel group was willing to search for a political solution to the 46-year-old conflict.

President-elect Juan Manuel Santos has in the past ruled out any dialogue unless the Farc released scores of hostages they are holding.

The message comes eight days before Mr Santos takes over as president.