Upcoming Presidential Elections Are a Test for the US' Partnership with Colombia
Upcoming Presidential Elections Are a Test for the US' Partnership with Colombia
If Colombia were to follow Venezuela's path, the consequences would extend far beyond the relationship with the US, said AS/COA's Eric Farnsworth.
Standing next to Colombia’s President Ivan Duque during a White House meeting in March, President Joe Biden praised the relationship with the South American nation, which he had just designated as a major non-NATO ally, as “the foundation of regional security and prosperity.”
The designation, granted only to Brazil and Argentina in the region, recognized the long-term security and military partnership between the two nations over the years, with a focus on fighting drug trafficking, and delivered a significant win for the conservative Duque during his last days in office.
But uncertainty looms over the future of the 200-year relationship between the two countries ahead of one of the most consequential elections in recent years for Colombians: A far-left candidate who is ahead in the polls has promised to take a fresh look at the narcotrafficking cooperation and trade with the United States…
Responding to Rubio’s question during the Senate hearing, Council of the Americas/Americas Society’s vice president Eric Farnsworth says if Colombia were to follow the same path as Venezuela, the consequences would extend far beyond the relationship with the United States, as “it is foundational to our ability to advance democratic and security interests throughout the hemisphere, not just Colombia.” …
