WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Three weeks before Colombia’s presidential inauguration, Vice President-elect Jose Manuel Restrepo led the incoming government’s first major international outreach with a high-level visit to Washington. The trip highlighted the administration’s plan to strengthen ties with the United States, attract investment, and boost economic growth before President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella takes office on Aug. 7.
The Colombian delegation met senior U.S. officials, global financial institutions, and multilateral organizations during the visit. The talks focused on economic cooperation, security, trade, and fiscal stability. In addition, the meetings helped establish early working relationships that the incoming government hopes will support its agenda for the next four years.
Restrepo traveled with the incoming ministers of finance, commerce, defense, and foreign affairs. Together, they outlined the administration’s priorities for the 2026-2030 term. They also sought support for economic reforms and development projects aimed at restoring investor confidence and encouraging long-term growth.
The delegation opened the visit with meetings at the World Bank. Officials from the International Finance Corporation and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency also joined the discussions. The talks centered on strengthening Colombia’s economy through private investment, financial cooperation, and access to new funding sources.
Furthermore, both sides discussed ways to improve fiscal discipline and speed up economic recovery. The Colombian team stressed the importance of creating a stable business climate, increasing competitiveness, and generating more jobs. They also said sustainable economic growth remains one of the administration’s top goals.
The delegation later met with officials from the International Monetary Fund. Those discussions focused on Colombia’s fiscal outlook and the challenges facing the incoming government. Both sides reviewed strategies to reduce the fiscal deficit while maintaining confidence in international markets.
Although the meeting produced no new funding programs, officials agreed to continue regular discussions on fiscal and financial matters. The dialogue will also support technical cooperation as the new government begins implementing its economic policies.
Restrepo later described the visit as an important step toward rebuilding confidence in Colombia’s economy. In a post on X, he said the administration plans to strengthen public finances, improve economic management, and create new opportunities for the country.
Security also played a major role during the Washington visit. Restrepo met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio alongside Colombia’s incoming defense, foreign affairs, and commerce ministers. The officials discussed stronger cooperation against organized crime, drug trafficking, and regional security threats.
The two governments also explored closer collaboration in intelligence sharing and institutional development. In addition, both sides expressed interest in expanding cooperation as Colombia’s new administration prepares to take office.
During the discussions, Colombian officials confirmed their intention to join the Shield of the Americas program, a regional security and counter-narcotics initiative supported by President Donald Trump’s administration. The delegation also announced plans to fully restore diplomatic relations with Israel and relocate Colombia’s embassy to Jerusalem.
At the same time, the Colombian team worked to reassure investors and international partners. Officials said the new administration will maintain clear business rules, encourage private investment, and strengthen economic stability. They argued that predictable policies will help attract foreign capital and support long-term development.
