Chile's Boric Meets Colombia's President-Elect De la Espriella to Discuss Security Cooperation

Chilean President Gabriel Boric met with Colombia's president-elect, Abelardo de la Espriella, in Cali to discuss enhancing bilateral ties, with a particular emphasis on security cooperation and the fight against organized crime. The meeting took place as Boric attended De la Espriella's inauguration, marking a significant diplomatic engagement between the two South American nations.

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The topic of prisons, because, unfortunately, some penitentiary centers have become centers of organized crime.

According to a presidential statement, the leaders explored strengthening the relationship between Chile and Colombia, focusing on joint efforts in security matters and institutional strengthening. Boric highlighted discussions on the prison system, noting that some penitentiaries have become hubs for organized crime. He mentioned Chile's relevant modifications to its Gendarmerie Law, aimed at isolating dangerous criminals and combating organized crime and drug trafficking.

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We have made relevant modifications to the Law of Gendarmerie of Chile, which is the penitentiary police. We are very focused on isolating dangerous criminals, pursuing organized crime and drug trafficking.

Boric, who is known for his progressive stance, emphasized that security is a cross-cutting issue affecting the continent. He expressed the relevance of sharing experiences between countries to address common challenges. Chile's participation in the change of command in Colombia reaffirms its commitment to international relations, regional cooperation, and collaborative work on shared issues.

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Security is an issue that affects the different countries of our continent transversally, and that is why it is so relevant to see experiences in other locations.

President-elect De la Espriella, described as far-right, secured victory with 49.7% of the vote in a second-round election on June 21. Boric was among the first continental leaders to congratulate De la Espriella, stating that his victory heralded a new era of freedom for Colombia, promising a return to security and prosperity. Boric also touched upon Chile's international agenda, mentioning recent meetings and announcements regarding relations with Brazil, the opening of consular relations with Venezuela, and work in the Asia-Pacific region.

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Chile's participation in the change of command reaffirms the commitment of Chile with the strengthening of international relations, regional cooperation and joint work to face common challenges, especially in matters of security, combating organized crime and economic development.