Rubio launches Latin America tour with pledge to restore Colombia ties

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio embarked on a three-nation tour of Latin America, vowing to reestablish ties with Colombia after four years of leftist administration. The visit to Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru follows a wave of elections that placed pro-US right-wing leaders in power, providing the United States with an opportunity to strengthen security and economic relations while countering China's growing influence in the region.

During a meeting with Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella in Barranquilla, Rubio acknowledged a strained relationship between the two countries under former President Gustavo Petro, who engaged in social media sparring with President Donald Trump. He emphasized that the new Colombian government inherited numerous challenges and had the chance to mend long-standing issues, fostering a stronger partnership than before.

Rubio commended De la Espriella for his energy, strength, vision, and courage, highlighting the importance of personal connections in diplomatic relations. The US and Colombia signed agreements concerning critical minerals supply chains and civilian nuclear cooperation, demonstrating Washington's commitment to securing strategic resources and expanding friendly ties.

De la Espriella reiterated Colombia's intention to become Washington's primary security partner in South America, underscoring the nation's dedication to restoring a historic alliance disrupted for four years. As Rubio moves forward with his tour, he will address security cooperation against drug trafficking and organized crime in Ecuador and participate in the US-backed Shield of the Americas initiative in Peru.