Events
Advancement of peace process resulting in a strong economy
— A peace agreement to end Colombia’s 52-year civil war was reached in 2016, and President Santos was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. What challenges does the country face in the implementation of the peace accord?
Under the Santos Administration, the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), the largest guerrilla group, reached an agreement to end hostilities. The peace accord is a very comprehensive agreement that, among other elements, paves the way for rural development, clarifies property rights, establishes guidelines for the participation of ex-FARC members in politics and ratifies efforts toward the eradication of the illegal drug trade. The execution of these terms will take several years. Implementing infrastructure improvements that focus on the development and integration of rural areas, and continuing improvements to education and health systems, are among the greatest challenges we face in the effort to reintegrate ex-guerrilla members into society and build a culture where we can all coexist. The political participation of ex-guerrilla members and the establishment of the Special Justice Tribunal are controversial issues. However, “transitional justice” and a search for the truth are essential components to the peace process owing to the centrality of the victims in the agreement. The promotion of voluntarily and forced elimination of coca plantations has already resulted in a decrease of drug-related violent crimes. While it involves some controversy and challenges, our complicated and ambitious peace process is realizing significant progress. Rural area development is expected to contribute between 1 and 2 percent of Colombia’s economic growth, contributing to a reduction in poverty and inequality in such areas.
— Colombia has the third largest economy in South America. What are the main features of the Colombian economy?
The land area of Colombia is approximately three times that of Japan. Colombia is the only country in South America that adjoins both the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean. We have an incredible wealth of distinct ecosystems, natural resources and rich biodiversity. Our economy is extremely diversified in terms of economic activities and industries including important mining, agriculture, manufacturing and services sectors. In addition to oil and coal, our main exports include coffee, cut flowers (carnations and roses) and sugar. Colombia is the second largest exporter of cut flowers in the world. A diversified economic base coupled with the implementation of sound economic policies has generated a robust and steady economy. Colombia is the only country in the region that did not default on our debt during the Latin American debt crisis. Moreover, with the exception of one year, Colombia has enjoyed positive growth for the last 70 years. Colombia had a GDP growth rate of 1.8 percent last year and this rate is expected to increase to between 2.7 and 3 percent this year. We also have other favorable economic factors, such as trade agreements with 49 countries, aggressive open-door policies, and policies favorable to business and foreign investment.
— Japan and Colombia are celebrating the 110th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year. How would you overview the development of our bilateral relations?
Japan and Colombia share the fundamental values of freedom, democracy and respect for human rights and the rule of law. We also maintain a close relationship in areas such as politics, economics, culture and sports. Among other items, Colombia exports coffee and cut flowers to Japan and imports automobiles and machinery. We appreciate Japan’s economic support in various areas. Approximately 80 Japanese-affiliated companies are now doing business in Colombia. Prime Minister Abe and President Santos have met several times in the last few years to exchange opinions and to reinforce the relationship between our two countries on a wide range of areas and international issues. An investment agreement between both countries took effect in 2015. A double taxation agreement was agreed in principle last year and the Economic Partnership Agreement is currently under negotiation. We believe the early conclusion of this agreement will further reinforce the positive trade/investment relationship between both countries.
— As Ambassador to Japan, which areas would you like to focus your efforts for reinforcing the good bilateral ties?
I am committed to work on strengthening ties between our two countries, including the expansion of our economic relationship and the promotion of exchanges in various areas. This year, we celebrate the 110th anniversary of diplomatic relations. I believe it is an ideal time to further facilitate the Japanese people’s understanding of Colombia and its people. In Colombia, with the support of the Japanese Embassy in Bogotá, the Universidad de los Andes will inaugurate a House of Japan. In Japan, we are planning to host anniversary events throughout this year. These events include musical performances including ocarinas, salsa dancing, art shows and lectures. Japan and Colombia have the honor to face each other in the first round of the FIFA World Cup this June and my sincere wish is for both teams to advance to the second stage
— Colombia is a founding member of the Pacific Alliance. How has regional trade and economic integration progressed?
As a matter of fact, I participated in the foundation of the Pacific Alliance, in 2012, as my country’s Vice Minister of Trade. The Pacific Alliance is much more than an agreement: It is a process to promote economic integration based on the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people, and in that way, further integrates us with the global economy. We have committed to the elimination of nearly all tariffs by not pursuing the establishment of common tariffs or numerical targets. The four participating countries in the region: Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Peru are committed to strengthening the economy and competitiveness of the region as a whole. Our respective country’s economic sectors are not complementary so we cannot measure our success based on trade growth between ourselves. Instead, we are focused on strengthening regional cohesion through establishing value chains and other means to promote integration with other regions including the Asia-Pacific. As mentioned before, the aim of the Pacific Alliance is to integrate better with the rest of the world including the 52 observer countries, Japan being the first from Asia. Last year, the designation of associate member was also established, and negotiations were initiated with Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Singapore to acquire that status.
（Interview by Shu Tamaru, FEC Counsellor）