EU–Latin America summit in Colombia takes place amid regional tensions
The fourth summit between the European Union and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) will take place on Sunday in the Colombian coastal city of Santa Marta, against the backdrop of mounting regional crises and limited European participation. The meeting aims to further strengthen economic and political ties between the two regions. Belgium will be represented by foreign minister Maxime Prévot (Les Engagés).
Prévot’s arrival in Colombia was delayed after his aircraft was forced to make an unscheduled landing on the Caribbean island of Sint Maarten due to an engine problem. “The landing went smoothly,” his spokesperson confirmed. As a result, the Belgian delegation will arrive late to the summit and Prévot will miss several scheduled meetings.
Limited European presence
The EU–CELAC summit aims to deepen economic and political ties between the two regions and to reaffirm support for multilateral cooperation. Yet, regional tensions and the absence of several key leaders threaten to overshadow proceedings. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen will not attend, and only Spain, Portugal and the Netherlands (countries with historic links to Latin America) are sending their prime ministers.
Tensions between Washington and Bogotá
Meanwhile, relations between the US and Latin American governments have deteriorated sharply. In recent weeks, US president Donald Trump has accused Colombian President Gustavo Petro of failing to combat drug trafficking, even labelling him a “drug lord.” The US has also carried out several attacks on suspected drug smuggling boats in the Caribbean, resulting in at least 70 deaths. The European Union’s muted reaction and low-level representation at the summit are seen by some observers as an effort to avoid further tension with Washington.
Key issues on the agenda
Security, drug trafficking, and organised crime are expected to dominate discussions, alongside trade, investment and sustainable development. The final declaration will likely highlight foreign policy cooperation, the inclusion of southern countries in the global system and the energy transition, though the crisis in Venezuela is not expected to be addressed due to divisions within CELAC.
Bilateral diplomacy will also play a key role on the sidelines of the summit. Belgium plans to lobby for the headquarters of the Convention for the Protection of Biodiversity in the High Seas, competing closely with the Chilean port city of Valparaíso. According to diplomatic sources, Belgium opposed a draft version of the summit’s final declaration that mentioned only Chile’s candidacy. “It’s both or none,” they said.
Hadja Lahbib, European Commissioner for humanitarian aid and crisis management, pictured during a visit to Colombia, Thursday 06 November 2025, in Santa Marta. © BELGA PHOTO MARIE DOSQUET
Related news
