US plans $1bn security aid package for Colombia

The United States plans to work with Congress to approve a $1 billion security assistance package for Colombia, as the country’s new right-wing President, Mr. Abdelardo de la Espriella, begins his administration.

US State Department officials announced the intention late Friday, describing the proposed funding as part of efforts to strengthen security cooperation between Washington and Bogotá.

The department said the package would support the new Colombian administration in pursuing shared security objectives with the United States.

“As a cornerstone of this renewed partnership, the United States, working with Congress, intends to announce $1 billion in assistance as part of a security package to support President Abdelardo de la Espriella’s administration in achieving our shared goals,” the statement said.

Security cooperation at the centre

The proposed assistance signals Washington’s intention to deepen its security partnership with Colombia under the new administration.

The package will require congressional cooperation before the funding can be formally approved.

The announcement comes as Mr. de la Espriella takes office and begins setting the priorities of his government, with security expected to remain a major issue in the country’s domestic and foreign policy.

For Washington, the proposed package also represents a renewed commitment to working with Colombia on shared security interests in the region.

The announcement is expected to place US-Colombia security cooperation among the key areas of focus as the new administration settles into office.