Israel and Colombia are rebuilding diplomatic ties after a rupture, with the process gaining momentum under Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella. As part of that renewed relationship, Vivian Aisen arrived in Bogotá a month ago as Israel’s new ambassador, bringing three decades of diplomatic experience from postings in Kazakhstan, Chile, the United Kingdom, and North Macedonia.
In an interview with El Tiempo, Aisen outlined an ambitious agenda: reviving a long-stalled free trade agreement between the two nations, eliminating visa requirements for travelers, and opening an Israeli embassy in Jerusalem. She emphasized that agricultural technology and meat exports will be key pillars of expanded commercial exchange, framing Israel’s approach as one focused on sharing expertise rather than simply exporting products. A defense delegation is also expected to visit Colombia soon as part of the broadening cooperation between the two governments.
Beyond trade, Aisen addressed some of the more sensitive issues facing her country. She defended Israel’s stance on the war in Gaza, now nearing its third year, as well as escalating tensions with Iran. She also discussed Israel’s upcoming parliamentary elections in October, a vote widely seen as a turning point for the country’s political direction.
Aisen’s arrival marks a symbolic new chapter in a relationship that had been frozen for years, with both governments now betting on economic and technological collaboration to rebuild mutual trust.
Curious about what else the ambassador revealed? Read the full interview at El Tiempo.
Source: TLC, tecnología agraria y carne; las apuestas de Israel para impulsar su nueva relación con Colombia (eltiempo.com). English version produced with AI assistance.
Image: MDGovpics, BY 2.0 (via Openverse).