Colombia opened its embassy in Jerusalem on Wednesday, becoming the 10th government to do so, as new President Abelardo De La Espriella reversed his predecessor’s break with Israel.
Former Colombian President Gustavo Petro broke diplomatic relations with Israel in 2024 over its actions in Gaza and had heavily criticised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said that “opening an embassy in Jerusalem is not only recognition of the simple political fact that Jerusalem is Israel’s capital. Most countries maintain embassies to Israel in Tel Aviv . Israel regards Jerusalem as its capital, while Palestinians seek East Jerusalem as the capital of a future independent state. The city’s status remains one of the most contentious issues in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Petro also halted coal exports to Israel. It is also recognition of a historical truth that no honest person can deny”.
The Colombian foreign ministry said in a statement the meeting will focus on political dialogue, security and defence cooperation, the strengthening of trade and new opportunities for investment. Israel’s Foreign Ministry noted that Saar and Bula will hold bilateral talks on Wednesday.
