The United States has announced plans to work with Congress to secure a $1 billion security assistance package for Colombia as the country’s newly inaugurated right-wing administration begins its tenure.
The proposed funding is expected to strengthen security cooperation between Washington and the new Colombian government and support areas of shared interest.
US State Department officials disclosed the plan late Friday, describing the proposed assistance as a major component of renewed relations between both countries.
The department said, “As a cornerstone of this renewed partnership, the United States, working with Congress, intends to announce $1 billion in assistance as part of a security package to support President (Abdelardo) de la Espriella’s administration in achieving our shared goals.”
The announcement came as de la Espriella assumed office as Colombia’s new president.
The proposed package will, however, require congressional approval before the funding can be released.
The move signals Washington’s intention to deepen its security partnership with Colombia under the new administration, with the United States expected to work with the Colombian government on mutually agreed security objectives.
The development was announced by the US State Department on Friday, although officials did not immediately provide detailed information on how the proposed $1 billion would be allocated.
