President Barroso and President Santos of Colombia agree to launch negotiations for a framework agreement
President Barroso met today with President of Colombia, Juan Manuel Santos Calderón, in Bogota. The two Presidents discussed the recent implementation of the EU-Colombia Trade Agreement, the solidarity and support of the EU to Colombia's peace and the future of their bilateral relations in the global context.
President Barroso said today in Bogota that the Presidents have agreed to launch negotiations for a broad Framework Agreement, which would be extendable to different areas of cooperation.
President Barroso also highlighted the opportune moment of his visit to the country, where for the first time there is a real possibility of reaching peace. The President assured that the EU will continue to show solidarity towards Colombia. He also confirmed to President Santos the EU's willingness to provide financial support for the implementation of the agreement that could be reached.
Colombia will also be one of the few high-medium income countries that will continue to benefit from financial support from the next EU budget.
On trade, President Barroso acknowledged the EU-Colombia Trade Agreement signed in August as a fundamental step for the bilateral relations between Europe and Colombia, and called on the business community to take the opportunities offered by the deal. One example of this cooperation is the milk sector, which will benefit from a 30 million euro programme.
The issue of visas for Colombians to enter EU countries was also on the agenda. President Barroso stated that the improvement of the situation in Colombia could be followed by a future removal of Schengen visas for Colombia, but also indicated the need to carefully examine this issue before any decision is made.
During their meeting, the two Presidents also discussed the fight against climate change and how it can actively contribute to the reduction of poverty.
President Barroso also confirmed that the EU will continue to support Colombia's efforts to join the OECD.
President Barroso is paying a two days visit to Colombia. This is the first time that a President of the European Commission visits the country.