Her Excellency Solangel Ortiz Mejía, the Ambassador of Colombia to the Czech Republic, kindly agreed to speak with us about Colombia’s international partnerships, its transformation in recent decades, and the opportunities for cooperation with the Czech Republic. We also included one light-hearted question about Colombia’s image abroad.

1. Madame Ambassador, how would you describe the current state of diplomatic relations between Colombia and the Czech Republic?

Despite the absence of a Colombian Embassy in the Czech Republic between 2002 and 2024, the two countries have maintained cordial relations.

The Czech Republic initially opened an Embassy in Colombia in 2013, and we did so last year. During these years, we have had cooperation and support from the Czech Republic for our peace process. I can say that we have cordial relations that we hope to deepen.

 We hope to work on commercial issues, cybersecurity, and support for peace, among others.

2. In which areas do you see the greatest potential for economic cooperation between our two countries? 

Automotive and cybersecurity are potentials from the Czech side, and coffee, flowers, and textiles from Colombia.

3. Colombia has gone through significant political and economic reforms in recent years. What are the main achievements you would highlight?

Colombia has maintained a stable economy throughout the years, with economic growth. President Gustavo Petro’s government has a different political tendency than what has traditionally governed the country. In that sense, labor reforms aimed at benefiting the population have been proposed.

4. How has Colombia positioned itself in the Latin American region in terms of stability and economic development?

Colombia has traditionally been a stable and reliable economy.

 We are members of different regional forums where we strengthen economic relations with our neighbors. For example, in the Pacific Alliance, a space in which, together with Mexico, Chile, and Peru, we promote trade in the region.

5. What role does Colombia play in the international fight against drug trafficking today?

Colombia, as a country where illegal groups produce and sell cocaine worldwide, has fought to eradicate this illegal activity within the country.  However, aware of the economic dependence of many farmers, public policies seek to generate alternatives with the substitution of illicit crops for other crops such as coffee or cocoa. They also aim for lawful uses of the coca leaf in medicine and food. Furthermore, internationally, Colombia achieved the approval last March of a resolution by the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs to create a group of independent experts. This group will analyze the global drug strategy and present recommendations to improve it.

6. Colombia is known for its cultural diversity and rich natural heritage. What would you recommend Czech tourists not to miss when visiting your country?

It is difficult to choose just one place, but I can suggest that they experience different settings all gathered in one single country.

These include beaches in the Caribbean and the Pacific (where you may spot whales at sun-down). Also, the Amazon jungle, the desert in La Guajira, plains, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, and the archaeological park of San Agustín. And of course, cities like Bogotá, Cartagena, Medellín, Santa Marta, Cali, Pasto, and many more.

7. In the context of global environmental challenges, what steps is Colombia taking to protect its rainforests and biodiversity?

Colombia is strongly committed to environmental preservation. Last October, Colombia hosted COP 16 on biodiversity, leading different topics. By being the host of the Convention on Biological Diversity, it demonstrated its commitment to the environment. In addition to adopting international instruments on environmental conservation, protected marine areas, and endangered species, domestic legislation adapts to these requirements. It also seeks to end dependence on fossil fuels.

8. How has the Colombian government worked to improve security and public perception, both domestically and internationally?

Crime is combated not only from Colombian territory but also through cooperation between official institutions and organizations from other countries. Colombia is part of Ameripol and has a presence in Europol, from where cooperation takes place to combat transnational crimes.

9. Are there any ongoing educational or cultural exchange programs between Colombia and the Czech Republic?

Directly, we do not have an active exchange program, but both countries offer scholarships to foreignersfrom which citizens of both countries can benefit.

On our part, this year we will bring ten children from a municipality in Colombia called Puerto Asis. This program is carried out by observing UN resolutions to prevent the enlistment of children in conflicts.  For Colombian youth, the situation with illegal armed groups puts them at risk of being recruited. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs seeks to offer a vision and an opportunity to young people from regions under this risk, so that they can see that there are opportunities and other areas for development in the world. These children are being trained in playing instruments such as the violin, cello, double bass, and others. The Czech Republic, through excellent musicians, can share some keys for their improvement.

On the other hand, we are also working on a Spanish program for public officials that we hope to start once summer is over.

10. On a lighter note – how do you personally respond when someone abroad still associates Colombia with Pablo Escobar or cocaine?

As a Colombian citizen, the permanent association with illegal activities is bothersome. I invite everyone to get to know our country, which is mega-diverse, has over fifty-three million Colombians, and only a few are criminals. I believe the world should move past mentioning criminals who are not worth remembering, and that bringing them up only keeps them alive in memory. The people who work, who do good, who are committed, who are honest are the majority of Colombians, and it is on them that we want attention to be focused. Foreigners who visit our country recognize that, in addition to its natural riches, one of our greatest treasures is the people, their kindness and joy.

This is what we should be associated with: nature, coffee, flowers, emeralds, and friendly people.

11. What has been your personal experience living and working in Prague so far? What do you appreciate most about the Czech Republic?

The Czech Republic is one of Europe’s jewels.  So far, I have had an interesting and pleasant experience. Discovering a culture with its historical particularities has been truly enriching. I have found coherence and commitment in the authorities.

Thank you very much for your time, Mrs. Ambassador.