WASHINGTON – Colombia's Vice President-elect José Manuel Restrepo met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss the future of bilateral relations. Restrepo said the partnership with the United States would be based on full respect for Colombia's national sovereignty.
The two sides discussed expanding cooperation on security, combating illegal drug cultivation, strengthening Colombia's armed forces, increasing trade and attracting investment. Colombia also expressed interest in joining the Shield of the Americas initiative.
Rubio described the meeting as productive and said the United States looks forward to working with President-elect Abelardo De La Espriella's incoming administration to deepen security cooperation and expand economic ties. Political observers believe closer relations could bring significant trade benefits for Colombia.