India and Colombia conducted a thorough evaluation of their bilateral relations, emphasizing trade, investment, energy, and information technology during the 10th round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) held in New Delhi. The discussions also aimed at pinpointing new avenues of collaboration in fields such as defense, renewable energy, and railways.
Both nations exchanged insights on regional, multilateral, and international issues of shared interest during this session, as outlined by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a recent announcement. The Indian delegation was led by Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East), while the Colombian delegation was represented by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jorge Enrique Rojas Rodriguez.
Throughout the FOC, both parties conducted a detailed assessment of their current bilateral relations, including sectors like trade and investment, energy infrastructure, health, traditional medicines, digital technology, space exploration, consular matters, and educational and cultural exchanges. The MEA noted the importance of enhancing people-to-people relations.
Following the consultations, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared on X that the discussions concentrated on evaluating the current state of relations and recognizing new opportunities for cooperation, particularly in defense and railway infrastructure.
Both countries expressed satisfaction with the advancements made in various areas and committed to deepening their existing collaborations while exploring fresh prospects. India and Colombia have maintained a long-standing diplomatic relationship since it was officially established on January 19, 1959. The two nations celebrated their 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2019, with Colombia opening its Embassy in New Delhi in 1972, followed by India’s embassy establishment in Colombia in 1973.
Over time, the partnership between India and Colombia has strengthened, leading to expanded cooperation in political, commercial, and cultural domains. The mechanism of Foreign Office Consultations, which began in 1995, serves as a platform for ongoing dialogue, with the previous meeting held virtually on May 7, 2021. The recent meeting in New Delhi marks a notable advancement in solidifying their dynamic and friendly relations.
