Rep. Maria Salazar praises Colombia’s new president, welcomes incoming delegation to the capital

Rep. Maria Salazar (R‑Fla.) told the House Committee on Foreign Affairs that Colombia’s newly elected president "has made it clear that he intends to be a steadfast, unconditional, and reliable ally of The United States," and she welcomed a visiting delegation of incoming Colombian officials to the capital after the hearing.

Salazar, identifying herself as the representative of Florida’s 27th District, said the June 21 election brought a president who "came from outside the traditional political elite" and "spoke to something universal, prosperity, security, democracy, and the opportunity to build a better life at home." She said those themes helped build public support for the new leader.

"We warmly welcome that commitment because our 2 nations share the same fundamental values," Salazar said, listing shared priorities including strengthening democratic institutions, expanding economic opportunity and promoting security. She added that the United States and the then‑administration in Washington "is looking forward to work with Colombia as it reaffirms its position among the democratic nations that value a close partnership with The United States."

Salazar said the delegation visiting after the hearing included the vice president‑elect, the foreign minister, the minister of commerce and the minister of defense. She also offered a personal note: she said she welcomed "Abelardo," who she said had been a constituent living in Coral Gables long before entering public service, calling the occasion "particularly very special."

The remarks were delivered as part of a Committee hearing; the transcript does not record a formal action, vote or response from members of the Colombian delegation in this segment. The hearing proceeded with the Committee’s scheduled business and the delegation was expected to meet U.S. officials in the capital following the session.