Shared goals strengthen ties between two nations
As security and policies improve, relations warm
During Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos’ visit to China in 2012, both sides vowed to increase economic and cultural cooperation.
“The two economies are complementary, and trade will continue to increase as the relationship continues to deepen,” said Zhou Quan, the economic and commercial counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Bogota.
“We are doing a study on the feasibility of a free trade agreement between China and Colombia, and the results are positive.”
Political stability, improved security, and pro-investment policies have created a new Colombia, transforming it into a hub for foreign investment.
Just this year, Standard & Poor’s raised Colombia’s investment grade from BBB- to BBB, while the country’s international image has come a long way from its past association with drug trafficking and violence.
“History has helped to strengthen ties between the two countries,” said Daniela Sanchez, executive director of the Colombia-China Chamber of Investment and Commerce.
“Events such as the 2010 Expo Shanghai have been instrumental in the progression of this relationship.”
“China is without a doubt a very important market for us,” said Jairo Ruiz, technical consultant for ACIPET, Colombia’s Association of Petroleum Engineers. “We are excited to increase the level of cooperation between both countries.”
He said China’s demand for energy, mining and petroleum products makes it an ideal complement and partner for Colombia. World Eye Reports provided the story