The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, has emphasized that the relationship and cooperation between the EU and Colombia "transcend changes of government," following the inauguration of the far-right leader Abelardo de la Espriella as the new president of the Latin American country.
The head of European diplomacy has responded in writing to a question raised in the European Parliament by French MEP Anthony Smith, who asked her how she planned to ensure that De la Espriella would respect the Final Peace Agreement of 2016 and other commitments, including the protection of human rights defenders.
"The EU's partnership with Colombia is based on long-term objectives that transcend changes of government," Kallas has pointed out, stressing that the EU "maintains its firm commitment" to supporting lasting peace, reconciliation, and inclusive development in Colombia.
The Foreign Affairs chief has recalled that "for almost a decade, EU cooperation has been closely linked to the implementation of the Final Peace Agreement of 2016, in recognition of its importance as a framework for addressing the root causes of the conflict," and has insisted that this agreement remains a central reference for European action in the country.
Beyond direct support for the Peace Agreement, Kallas has explained that the EU maintains its involvement with peace "in a broader sense," admitting that "violence continues to affect several regions and vulnerable communities" and that "the consolidation of peace remains and will continue to be," therefore, "a central priority of the EU's commitment in Colombia."
In this regard, she has highlighted the cooperation between Brussels and Bogotá in areas such as strengthening local governance, promoting inclusive rural development, reintegrating former combatants, strengthening the rule of law, and protecting communities that continue to suffer from violence.
Finally, the high representative has indicated that the EU will continue to deploy its cooperation programs "in line with these long-term objectives" and that it will continue to act as "a reliable partner for Colombia in promoting peace, stability, and inclusive development."