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USS Gerald R. Ford is in the Caribbean, placing U.S. naval airpower within rapid range of Venezuela. Photo: Handout/SOUTHCOM

The New Monroe Doctrine: U.S. Recasts Latin America as Security Priority

By Luis Guillermo Plata - December 18, 2025

Why such a massive U.S. military deployment off the coast of Venezuela, supposedly to combat the “Cartel of the Suns” and stop drug trafficking from Venezuela to the United States? After more than four months, the results amount to little more than a handful of small vessels destroyed – an extremely modest impact given the […]

China’s Ruifeng Lin Wins Bogotá’s First International Violin Competition

By The City Paper Staff - November 8, 2025

Bogotá brought its inaugural International Violin Competition to a rousing close on Saturday night, capping a week of performances that reshaped the city’s classical music landscape and signaled the arrival of a new cultural tradition. The grand finale, held at the Teatro Mayor Julio Mario Santo Domingo, unfolded as both a celebration of virtuosity and […]

First Metro Train for Bogotá Arrives in Colombia

By Richard Emblin - September 2, 2025

Bogotá’s first metro train has arrived in Colombia after a 30-day journey from China, marking a historic milestone for the long-delayed project. The six-car train will undergo testing in the capital, with Line 1 expected to begin passenger service in March 2028.

Petro halts extradition of Dissident Commander “HH” wanted in U.S. for drug trafficking

By The City Paper Staff - May 23, 2025

Colombian President Gustavo Petro suspended the U.S. extradition of dissident commander Gabriel Yepes Mejía, sparking tensions with Washington. The move, tied to peace talks, risks sanctions as Colombia deepens ties with China and distances itself from traditional U.S. alliances.

South is the new East: Stories shaping China – Latin America relations

By Cui Xingyu - May 14, 2025

China and Latin America are strengthening ties through infrastructure, education, and cultural exchange. From port construction in Peru to traditional medicine in Argentina, personal stories highlight how deepening cooperation is building bridges across continents.

Colombia’s Petro pivots to Beijing with intent to join Belt and Road

By The City Paper Staff - May 8, 2025

Colombian President Gustavo Petro plans to sign a letter of intent to join China’s Belt and Road Initiative during a May visit to Beijing, signaling a major geopolitical shift that could strain ties with the U.S. and alarm business leaders as trade tariffs loom.

Bogotá rings in the Year of the Snake with Chinese New Year Celebration

By The City Paper Staff - January 17, 2025

Bogotá will celebrate the Chinese New Year on January 26 at Parque de los Novios, honoring the Year of the Snake. The event features traditional dances, martial arts, calligraphy workshops, Chinese cuisine, and strengthens Colombia-China cultural ties.