Bilateral ties between the Philippines and Colombia highlighted at the celebration of the 212th anniversary of Colombian independence

On the Philippine side, Undersecretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro highlighted the growing bilateral ties between Colombia and her country, based on a common history and heritage, and the shared values ​​of peace and freedom. She did it during the national day reception offered by the Colombian ambassador to the Philippines, Marcela Ordóñez, held at the Peninsula Hotel in Manila on July 21. Lázaro was the guest of honor at this year’s reception on the occasion of the 212th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Colombia.

Undersecretary Lazaro also highlighted the ongoing discussions on possible areas of cooperation such as disaster risk management, defense and non-traditional security, including the fight against illicit drugs and the fight against terrorism, among others.

Aware of similar challenges, such as the impacts of climate change, the official thanked Colombia’s show of solidarity and support for the victims of Typhoon Odette that hit the Philippines last year. She also congratulated Colombia for the successful conduct of its national elections last month.

Colombian Ambassador Marcela Ordóñez noted that bilateral cooperation between the two countries has evolved significantly since the opening of the Colombian Embassy in Manila in 2017.

Jaime Suárez: «It is important for Colombia to have a very articulated strategy regarding China and its market»

To further enhance bilateral cooperation, he recognized the progress in the negotiations on technical cooperation to address the normalization and reintegration of ex-combatants, through which Colombia could share its best practices and experiences in this field.

Undersecretary Lazaro also highlighted ongoing discussions on possible areas of cooperation such as disaster risk management, defense and security.

During the celebrations for the 212th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Colombia, Ordoñez also reaffirmed Colombia’s interest in seeking collaboration in the areas of education and tourism.

And he remarked that he looks forward to the proposed establishment of the Philippine and Colombian business chambers that will facilitate greater business and investment opportunities for both parties.