Colombia, Ecuador advance border base talks with US Southern Command chief

Colombia and Ecuador are intensifying efforts to establish a binational base along their shared border, a move aimed at bolstering security and combating the pervasive influence of illegal groups. The initiative gained momentum following a meeting between Colombian and Ecuadorian defense authorities and U.S. Southern Command chief General Francis L. Donovan.

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discuss joint efforts to combat narco-terrorists

The 600-kilometer border region has long been a critical area for illicit activities, including drug trafficking, illegal mining, smuggling, and human trafficking. The proposed binational base seeks to enhance cooperation and joint response capabilities against these persistent threats.

This collaboration follows a period of diplomatic tension between the two nations, particularly between former Colombian President Gustavo Petro and Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa, over border security responsibilities. However, with the shift in Colombia's political landscape and the appointment of Abelardo de la Espriella, who has pledged a tougher stance against illegal groups, tensions have reportedly eased, paving the way for increased cooperation.

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strengthen cooperation and joint response to threats affecting this area

General Donovan's visit to Tumaco, a key border city in Colombia's Nariño department, provided a firsthand look at the security situation. The U.S. military's involvement underscores the strategic importance of the region in the broader fight against drug cartels and narco-terrorism. Discussions have also included reviewing Ecuador's national campaign plan and outcomes from the Coalition of the Americas against Cartels (A3C) initiative.

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The border between Colombia and Ecuador is a strategic geographic point that violent cartels have long exploited. Today, we are changing the game.