The Colombian government has announced a fundamental diplomatic decision in support of Palestine. With the announcement, Colombia took a significant step towards its support for the people of Palestine and their quest for recognition. On Wednesday, the president of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to see to the establishment of a Colombian embassy in Ramallah, the administrative center of the Palestinian Authority.
This move comes on the heels of Colombia severing diplomatic ties with Israel in early May, following the condemnation of Israeli actions in Gaza. President Petro had previously expressed his intention to open a Palestinian embassy during a meeting with both Israeli and Palestinian ambassadors last October.
Colombia’s Foreign Minister, Luis Gilberto Murillo, emphasized Colombia’s continued advocacy for Palestinian statehood. He highlighted efforts at a recent leadership meeting to push for full Palestinian state recognition within the United Nations framework.
“We firmly believe more countries will recognize Palestine,” stated Murillo. “This is not directed against Israel or the Jewish people. The Oslo Accords, brokered by the UN, envisioned a two-state solution. Recognizing Palestine as a full state is crucial to achieving this.”
This announcement coincides with similar steps taken by Spain, Ireland, and Norway, who plan to formally recognize the State of Palestine on May 28th. Colombia itself previously recognized Palestine as a state in 2018 under the leadership of Juan Manuel Santos.
The establishment of the embassy signifies a deepening of Colombia’s commitment to Palestine and reflects a potential shift in international recognition of Palestinian statehood.
