Rubio meets Colombia's De la Espriella in Barranquilla on trade and security

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella in Barranquilla on Tuesday, opening a regional tour that includes Ecuador and Peru. The meeting focused on security cooperation, counter-narcotics efforts, and trade relations.

Colombia sought relief from 12.5 percent US tariffs imposed in July, which officials say threaten exports. De la Espriella, a Trump-endorsed leader who calls himself "The Tiger," requested the suspension after a 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on August 10.

“We're hoping to wrap up good, solid trade deals with all three of these countries in the foreseeable future”

The United States has provided $26.5 million in humanitarian aid for earthquake recovery. Both leaders discussed transforming emergency solidarity into a long-term strategic partnership, with Colombia offering territory and clear rules in exchange for US investment and expertise.

Rubio told reporters he hopes to finalize "good, solid" trade deals with all three nations in the foreseeable future. The visit reflects growing ideological alignment between Washington and the three governments on regional security and economic engagement.

De la Espriella emphasized Colombia's responsibility in stabilizing the 2,000-kilometer border with Venezuela and requested a US consulate in Barranquilla, the country's alternate capital. The leaders also discussed innovation and cultural diplomacy.