Colombian President Asks Trump to Suspend Tariffs After Earthquake

Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella has spoken with former U.S. President Donald Trump, seeking economic relief for his country in the wake of a devastating earthquake.

During a ten-minute call, De La Espriella expressed deep gratitude for the humanitarian aid and rescue teams sent by the United States. He also requested that Trump consider a temporary suspension of "high tariffs" on Colombian products. The president explained that this measure would help Colombian entrepreneurs facing severe difficulties due to the earthquake's impact and the difficult economic situation he inherited.

"President Trump was supremely warm and expressed his affection for Colombia and his fondness for our people," De La Espriella stated on social media platform X. He reiterated his profound thanks for U.S. solidarity and support, emphasizing the imperative of the alliance between the two nations for Colombia's reconstruction.

The conversation also highlighted existing cooperation, including Colombia's recent authorization for U.S. military operations against drug trafficking and a planned $1 billion U.S. aid package for security matters.