Sastankom sa Svjetskom bankom započinje agenda izabrane vlade u SAD-u

The newly elected Colombian government began its diplomatic engagement with international financial institutions in Washington, D.C., with a meeting held with the World Bank. On July 13, 2026, Vice President-elect José Manuel Restrepo, alongside designated ministers of Finance and Commerce, met with representatives of the World Bank to discuss economic strategies and potential financial support for Colombia. According to a statement released by the political movement Defensores de la Patria, the discussion centered around available financing options over different timeframes, including short-term, medium-term, and long-term alternatives. This approach marks a shift from the current administration’s strategy, which prioritized reducing external debt and securing funding through organizations such as the International Monetary Fund. The proposed strategy aims to secure financing without facing the high interest rates demanded by global markets, which have been influenced by skepticism toward Colombia's fiscal management and the decline in its investment grade rating. However, these loans typically come with conditions and policy recommendations aimed at improving governance and public services. Susana Cordeiro, the World Bank’s vice-president for Latin America, expressed appreciation for the new administration’s focus on economic stability and growth-oriented policies. She noted the emphasis on employment and sustainable development during their discussions. Restrepo also mentioned that the incoming president will soon meet with Cordeiro in Barranquilla, further solidifying ties between the two nations. The broader agenda includes meetings with key U.S. federal agencies, including the Department of State, Treasury, Energy, and Commerce, as well as the U.S.-Colombian Chamber of Commerce and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. These engagements aim to align Colombia’s economic priorities with those of the United States and establish a collaborative framework for trade and investment. In addition, the team plans to attend a congressional hearing in Washington, where they will engage with both Republican and Democratic lawmakers. The session will include meetings with Representatives Mario Díaz-Balart and Carlos A. Giménez, along with Senators Bernie Moreno and Rubén Gallego. Moreno, born in Bogotá, was a close ally of former President Donald Trump and serves as his trusted representative on Latin American affairs. Gallego, a Democrat, is the first person of Latin American descent to hold a Senate seat in Arizona and has been a vocal advocate for strengthening U.S.-Colombian relations. The gathering will also involve a meeting with the Colombia Caucus, a bipartisan group of legislators dedicated to enhancing bilateral ties. Led by Díaz-Balart and Henry Cuéllar, this coalition represents a growing trend of ideological alignment between Colombia and certain conservative factions within the U.S. Congress. The Economist referred to this phenomenon as “trumpification,” highlighting how figures associated with Trump continue to influence policy directions in the region, particularly regarding security and law enforcement. Earlier in the week, the delegation met with the U.S. Chief of Mission in Colombia, Hugo Guevara, during a religious pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary in Chiquinquirá. This trip followed a series of visits to Catholic shrines, reflecting the administration’s emphasis on cultural and spiritual connections. The delegation also engaged in discussions with a Washington-based delegation, focusing on national security, organized crime, narcotics trafficking, trade, and bilateral relations. Designated Foreign Minister Omar Bula emphasized that Colombia is currently distant from major international decision-making circles and sees opportunities to build a new regional leadership model with countries led by right-leaning governments. His remarks underscore the administration’s vision of positioning Colombia as a strategic partner in the Western Hemisphere. The upcoming months will see continued efforts to shape Colombia’s international standing and economic trajectory under the new leadership.