The governments of El Salvador and Colombia reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration during the 13th Joint Commission Meeting on Technical, Scientific, Educational, and Cultural Cooperation. The meeting took place at the Salvadoran Ministry of Foreign Affairs and marked another milestone in the robust partnership between the two nations.
The meeting was led by Karla de Palma, Director of the El Salvador Agency for International Cooperation (ESCO); William Deleón, Director of the Ministry’s Office of Cooperation; and German Banacek Álvarez, El Salvador’s Ambassador to Colombia, who participated remotely. Representing Colombia were Diana Páez, Director of International Cooperation, and Carlos Rodríguez Bocanegra, Colombia’s Ambassador to El Salvador.
In her opening remarks, Karla de Palma expressed gratitude for Colombia’s commitment to joint initiatives, highlighting Colombia’s exemplary role in South-South and Triangular Cooperation. “This is a moment to share experiences and best practices. It’s also an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of friendship between our nations,” she said.
William Deleón underscored the importance of the meeting for advancing initiatives in trade, risk management, institutional strengthening, public health, early childhood education, road safety, peacebuilding, and women’s empowerment. He also outlined the newly defined areas of cooperation under the 2024-2026 El Salvador-Colombia Technical, Scientific, Educational, and Cultural Cooperation Program, including geology, energy, and gender equality.
Colombia’s delegation praised El Salvador’s social and economic transformations, particularly efforts targeting youth empowerment through initiatives like Urban Centers for Well-Being and Opportunities and the development of Surf City tourism. Ambassador Carlos Rodríguez Bocanegra emphasized the importance of joint efforts in security and the broader impact of bilateral cooperation.
The meeting concluded with formal presentations and the signing of cooperation agreements by Salvadoran and Colombian institutions, which showcased best practices and successful initiatives. Government representatives from various Salvadoran ministries and agencies, including Education, Governance, and FONAT, actively participated in the discussions.
This collaborative effort underscores the enduring friendship and shared vision of El Salvador and Colombia as they work together to promote sustainable development and mutual progress.