Colombia Opens Embassy in Jerusalem, Citing Shared Fight Against Terrorism

Colombia has officially opened its embassy in Jerusalem, marking a significant diplomatic shift. The inauguration ceremony, held on Wednesday, October 14, was attended by Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Boula Escobar, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, and Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion. The new ambassador, Tania Gylinski, assumes her post after a three-year period where Colombia lacked an ambassador to Israel, a situation attributed to the previous president's stance on Israel and the Gaza conflict. Gylinski's appointment followed the recent presidential election victory of right-wing candidate Abelardo de la Espriella.

The embassy is located in the Salamé Building on Rabbi Akiva Street, a historic structure built in the 1920s by Arab-Christian businessman Constantin Salameh. Both the Colombian and Israeli foreign ministers participated in affixing a mezuzah to the entrance.

During the ceremony, Minister Escobar emphasized the renewal of strong ties and the strategic importance of Colombia's presence in Israel. He stated that the embassy's relocation to Jerusalem signifies a commitment to dialogue and strengthening relations that should never have been interrupted. Escobar highlighted nearly seven decades of cooperation in trade, security, and technology, calling Israel a vital strategic partner. He also noted that both nations face threats from terrorism and organized crime, underscoring the need for robust national capabilities and international cooperation. Escobar expressed a desire to enhance trade and foster alliances, particularly in innovation and artificial intelligence.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar hailed the opening as a historic event and a testament to Colombia's status as a strategic partner. He urged the mayor to expedite the construction of more office spaces, anticipating further diplomatic gains. Saar stated that Colombia's embassy is the tenth foreign mission to open in Jerusalem, doubling the number since he took office two years prior. He framed this as a diplomatic achievement in Israel's ongoing struggle against what he described as a campaign based on falsehoods and denial of Israel's historical connection to its land and capital. Saar pledged to continue working to encourage more countries to establish embassies in Jerusalem, mentioning the upcoming eleventh embassy from Congo and hinting at a twelfth.

Ambassador Gylinski echoed the sentiment that relations were damaged under the previous administration but noted that business and personal ties persisted due to a belief in the bilateral relationship. She affirmed Colombia's commitment to its alliance with Israel, characterizing both nations as peoples fighting against crime and terrorism. Gylinski expressed optimism about building a great future together, calling Jerusalem a city of miracles and Israel a land of wonders.