The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today concluded a visit to Colombia, a partner that figures prominently in Canada’s re-engagement in the Americas.

In Bogotá, Minister Bernier met with President Álvaro Uribe and with his counterpart, Foreign Minister Fernando Araújo, to discuss bilateral issues such as Canada’s support for Colombia’s peace efforts and moves to strengthen economic ties between the two countries.

“President Uribe and I had a very constructive meeting,” said Minister Bernier. “He and his government have made important progress against the cycle of conflict, violence and underdevelopment that has plagued Colombia for decades. Canada is supporting Colombia’s efforts in concrete ways that are helping to achieve real results.”

Canada’s engagement in Colombia also includes the promotion of prosperity. Discussions on a free trade agreement with Colombia are ongoing and Canada remains committed to concluding the negotiations in the near future.

In addition to his discussions with senior officials on trade issues, Minister Bernier had the opportunity to meet with Canadian business representatives operating in Colombia.

The Minister also met with civil society leaders to discuss the current human-rights situation and prospects for peace. He visited a Canadian-funded education centre that is helping children in an underprivileged neighbourhood of Bogotá resist recruitment by illegal armed groups.

Over the next year, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada will provide up to $6 million, through the Global Peace and Security Fund (GPSF), to continue supporting Colombia’s peace efforts. Through the GPSF, Canada supports peace building, the promotion and protection of victims’ rights, and the fight against impunity.