Photo: Fotografía oficial de la Presidencia de Colombia.
President Gustavo Petro delivered sharp criticism against members of Colombia’s embassy staff in Beijing, accusing them of acting as “saboteurs” of the bilateral relationship with China. He argued that these officials have hindered his government’s strategy to strengthen ties with what he considers a strategic partner for Colombia’s future in trade, infrastructure, and clean energy.
In a public address, Petro said he has already asked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to replace the embassy personnel allegedly working against Colombia’s national interests. “Those people must leave,” he declared, insisting that the diplomatic service must be fully aligned with his foreign policy vision.
Petro has made deepening cooperation with China a cornerstone of his international agenda. His government has sought Chinese support for projects in transportation, telecommunications, renewable energy, and trade, positioning Beijing as a counterweight to Colombia’s historic reliance on the United States and European partners.
The timing of Petro’s remarks is significant. China is expanding its footprint in Latin America through major infrastructure investments, such as the Chancay port in Peru and new bioceanic trade corridors. Analysts warn that signs of disarray within Colombia’s diplomatic corps could undermine Beijing’s confidence and weaken Colombia’s leverage in ongoing negotiations.
The controversy has also sparked debate over the management of Colombia’s professional diplomatic service. Critics argue that replacing career diplomats for political reasons risks weakening institutional continuity and damaging Colombia’s image abroad. Supporters, however, maintain that the president has the right to ensure that diplomats carry out his policy priorities faithfully.
On the international stage, Petro’s accusations are unusual. Rarely do heads of state publicly call out embassy staff in such terms, a move that could be interpreted as evidence of internal divisions. As Colombia seeks to project itself as a reliable partner in Asia, the president’s words may raise questions about the stability of its foreign policy execution.
Main Source:
Colombia’s Petro fires own Beijing embassy team for ‘sabotaging’ China outreach – South China Morning Post
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