President De La Espriella attends Medellín's Flower Fair closing parade

Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella made a special appearance at the closing of Medellín's 69th Flower Fair, attending the iconic Silleteros Parade. The presidential plane landed at the Enrique Olaya Herrera airport on Sunday afternoon, August 9th.

De La Espriella arrived with his family and was seated between Medellín Mayor Federico Gutiérrez and Antioquia Governor Andrés Julián Rendón. The president expressed his excitement, calling Medellín a "marvelous city" full of art and culture. He also affirmed his commitment to Antioquia and the nation.

Mayor Gutiérrez had announced the president's imminent arrival shortly before the parade. He also revealed that he had recently discussed the transfer of over 100 inmates from Itagüí prison with De La Espriella. The president's attendance is a significant event, as it is the first time a Colombian president has participated in the Silleteros Parade in 19 years, with the last being Álvaro Uribe Vélez in 2007.

The Silleteros Parade, a major highlight of the Flower Fair, featured 530 participants of various ages. The event concluded the week-long festivities, which included competitions for the best "silletas" – large floral arrangements carried on the back.