Ecuadorian minister links national security to 'change' in Colombia

Ecuador's Interior Minister John Reimberg stated that enhanced security within his nation hinges on a "change in Colombia," specifically referencing the potential impact of ultraconservative candidate Abelardo de la Espriella's performance in the recent Colombian presidential elections. Reimberg asserted that the most significant security challenge for Ecuador stems from its shared border with Colombia.

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We as Ecuadorians need Colombia to change. The biggest security problem the country has is because of the border with Colombia.

Reimberg elaborated that during his time at the border, he observed a lack of Colombian military or police presence. He attributed this not to a deficiency in Colombia's security forces, but to a "political decision" by President Gustavo Petro's administration to not actively combat organized crime and drug trafficking. "That of course affects our country," Reimberg added, expressing optimism that De la Espriella's potential success could foster a positive shift in Colombian policy, thereby improving the situation in Ecuador.

This statement follows a period of heightened tension between the two nations. Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa initiated a trade dispute in February, imposing tariffs of up to 100% on Colombian goods. Noboa argued this measure was necessary to pressure Petro's government into taking stronger action against the flow of cocaine from Colombia into Ecuador, which is grappling with its worst-ever criminal violence crisis fueled by drug trafficking and illegal mining.

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That of course affects our country. We hope that De la Espriella 'has positive results' so that 'there is a change that improves the situation in Colombia', which 'will also improve the situation' in Ecuador.

Colombia retaliated with tariffs of up to 75%, leading the Andean Community of Nations (CAN) to order an end to the trade war in early May. However, Noboa announced the complete removal of Ecuadorian tariffs just before the Colombian elections, citing an agreement with De la Espriella. The Colombian government denounced this move as interference in its internal affairs, while Ecuador maintained it was a response to CAN resolutions. Reimberg reiterated that drugs, weapons, and criminal groups traverse the border, emphasizing Colombia's responsibility to regain control and enable joint efforts for regional security.

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Colombia has to do its part, because if they take control of that area, we can work together so that it yields results for the region and the world.