Israel and Colombia Agree on Mutual Visa Waiver Starting September 1

Israel and Colombia have agreed to a reciprocal visa waiver effective from September 1, following diplomatic talks between their foreign ministers. The announcement was made by Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, confirming that the decision came after discussions between Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar. This agreement allows citizens of both countries to enter without a visa, marking a significant step in the rapid warming of relations between Israel and Colombia since the recent change in Colombia's government.

Diplomatic ties between the two nations had been severed during the presidency of Gustavo Petro but have been restored under the new president, Abelardo de la Espriella. Last month, Sa'ar and Bula Escobar met in Washington, where they formulated a roadmap for fully renewing diplomatic and economic relations and reinstating ambassadors. The new Colombian government has also announced plans to open an embassy in Jerusalem. Furthermore, shortly after taking office, President de la Espriella's administration recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, further solidifying bilateral ties.