On Wednesday, Humberto de la Calle Lombana, former Vice President and Foreign Minister of Colombia, who led the government's delegation in the peace talks with the FARC, criticized President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella's decision to cut diplomatic ties with Cuba, calling it a "mistake."
De la Calle, who spearheaded the negotiations that concluded with the signing of the Peace Agreement in Havana in 2016 over nearly 44 months, emphasized the crucial role Cuba played as a guarantor and host of the process, drawing from his firsthand experience in the discussions.
"Severing relations with Cuba is a mistake. The current government on the Island no longer advocates for revolution in Colombia. That era is behind us. Instead, Cuba has been pivotal in our pursuit of peace," he expressed on his X account.
The former negotiator further vouched for Havana's role during the peace process.
"I can attest to the professionalism, integrity, and diplomatic seriousness of the Cuban government in the conversations aimed at ending the conflict with the former FARC," he stated.
De la Calle also dismissed the notion that Cuba's authoritarian government justifies breaking diplomatic relations.
"The argument that it's a dictatorial government doesn't hold up, not because one defends that government, but because using that logic, Colombia would need to sever ties with a multitude of countries. The nature of the regime doesn't determine the usefulness of diplomatic relations with different nations," he argued.
With a hint of irony, the politician anticipated criticism for his stance.
"They'll call me a 'mamerto' again. It doesn't matter. I suggest more reflection," he remarked.
The Espriella's Decision
The statement came two days after Abelardo de la Espriella announced the cutting of diplomatic ties with Cuba and Nicaragua, countries he labeled as "tyrannies," alongside closing 14 Colombian embassies as part of a foreign policy overhaul.
"In my administration, there will be no ties with tyrannies," declared the president-elect, set to assume office on August 7 in Cali.
Havana's response was swift. Cuba's Ministry of Foreign Affairs termed the decision as "unjustified" and accused De la Espriella of acting in "subordination to the United States' aggressive policies."
A Controversial Move
The incoming Colombian government has shown close alignment with the administration of President Donald Trump. On July 15, Vice President-elect José Manuel Restrepo met with Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington as part of an official mission called "The Miracle Homeland." Following De la Espriella's electoral victory in June, Rubio was among the first international leaders to publicly congratulate him.
Not only De la Calle, but also Rodrigo Londoño, former FARC commander known as "Timochenko," called for a reconsideration of the break with Cuba on Tuesday, highlighting the island's role during the peace negotiations.
The diplomatic history between Colombia and Cuba has seen previous ruptures. Colombia cut ties with Cuba in 1961 and again in 1981, during the presidency of Julio César Turbay Ayala, following accusations of Cuban support for the M-19 guerrilla movement. In both instances, diplomatic relations were restored years later.
Frequently Asked Questions on Colombia-Cuba Diplomatic Relations
Why did Abelardo de la Espriella decide to cut ties with Cuba?
The president-elect labeled Cuba and Nicaragua as "tyrannies" and decided to sever diplomatic relations as part of a broader foreign policy reorganization.
What role did Cuba play in the Colombian peace process?
Cuba served as a guarantor and host during the peace negotiations between the Colombian government and the FARC, contributing significantly to the successful conclusion of the peace talks.
Has Colombia previously cut diplomatic relations with Cuba?
Yes, Colombia suspended its diplomatic ties with Cuba in 1961 and once more in 1981, but restored relations in subsequent years.