Background on Key Figures and Context
Daniel García-Peña, Colombia’s ambassador to the United States, has been called to consultations by President Gustavo Petro’s government. This move comes after the U.S. called its charge d’affaires, John T. McNamara, to consultations. Despite these tensions, Colombia has reaffirmed its commitment to the bilateral relationship with the United States.
Colombia’s Response and García-Peña’s Statement
In response to the U.S. action, Colombia has taken a similar step by calling its ambassador to the U.S., Daniel García-Peña, for consultations. However, García-Peña has reiterated Colombia’s commitment to the bilateral relationship and highlighted the progress in cooperation between the two nations, emphasizing that it contributes to the well-being of their peoples and the entire region.
García-Peña’s Message on Social Media
Through a message shared on social media platforms, García-Peña described the current situation as an “exercise of sovereignty” by both Colombia and the United States, emphasizing that it is a “legitimate use of competencies.” He further stressed that Bogotá will continue to promote respectful, open, and constructive dialogue with the U.S., guided by international law principles and mutual interests.
Promoting Measured Public Statements
García-Peña urged for restraint in public statements from both countries, stating that speculative or inflammatory opinions do not contribute to strengthening the bilateral conversation or maintaining a relationship based on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared understanding.
President Petro’s Perspective
President Petro had previously expressed concerns about those pushing for strained relations between the U.S. and Latin America, stating that their goal is to weaken efforts against multinational criminal organizations. García-Peña’s message aims to address these concerns and maintain a positive dialogue between Colombia and the United States.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current situation between Colombia and the United States? The U.S. called its charge d’affaires to Colombia, John T. McNamara, for consultations in response to tensions. Colombia has reciprocated by calling its ambassador to the U.S., Daniel García-Peña, for consultations.
- How has Colombia responded to these tensions? Despite the tensions, Colombia has reaffirmed its commitment to the bilateral relationship with the U.S. and emphasized the importance of respectful dialogue.
- What is Daniel García-Peña’s role in this situation? As Colombia’s ambassador to the United States, García-Peña has reiterated his country’s commitment to the bilateral relationship and promoted respectful, open dialogue with the U.S.
- Why is García-Peña emphasizing measured public statements? To maintain a positive relationship based on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared understanding, García-Peña urges for restraint in public statements from both countries.
