BOGOTÁ (VINnews)-Colombia’s president-elect, Abelardo de la Espriella, vowed to restore and dramatically strengthen his country’s relationship with Israel, describing the Jewish state as a “loyal friend and steadfast ally.”

In a statement thanking Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar for his endorsement, de la Espriella declared: “Colombia will restore and strengthen its relationship with the State of Israel like never before. Israel can count on Colombia as a loyal friend and steadfast ally. May G-d bless our two nations.”

Thank you, my dear friend. Colombia will restore and strengthen its relationship with the State of Israel like never before. Israel can count on Colombia as a loyal friend and steadfast ally. May God bless our two nations.

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Gracias, mi querido amigo. Colombia restaurará y… https://t.co/YwaQEdUtwM

— Abelardo De La Espriella (@ABDELAESPRIELLA) June 24, 2026

#Política | Abelardo de la Espriella anuncia que "Colombia restaurará y fortalecerá su relación" con Israel.

Más detalles >>> https://t.co/LM6X2NjR5w pic.twitter.com/yTRBxLec8j

— Noticias Caracol (@NoticiasCaracol) June 24, 2026

The comments come as de la Espriella prepares to assume office, signaling a potential shift in Colombia’s foreign policy toward warmer relations with Israel. Ties between the two countries have fluctuated in recent years amid regional political changes in Latin America.

Sa’ar welcomed the overture, highlighting the mutual benefits of renewed cooperation between the nations. Israel maintains diplomatic relations with many countries in Latin America and has worked to expand partnerships in trade, technology, defense and agriculture in the region.

🚨🇨🇴🇮🇱 | ALIADOS: El presidente de Colombia @ABDELAESPRIELLA reafirma su compromiso con el Estado de Israel ante la comunidad judía: "Nunca dudaré en defender al pueblo judío, que es nuestro pueblo hermano". pic.twitter.com/VerRiGuvoA

— La Derecha Diario Israel (@DerechaDiarioIS) June 23, 2026

De la Espriella’s remarks were shared publicly following Sa’ar’s endorsement of his candidacy or election victory. VINnews will continue to monitor developments in Colombia-Israel relations as the new administration takes shape.