Latest News

Petro claims ‘Dubai is the new Miami for narcos’ amid Gulf Clan attacks

By The City Paper Staff - May 6, 2025

Colombian President Gustavo Petro defended his security policy amid a surge in violence that has left 27 officers dead. Downplaying fears of collapse, Petro blamed international drug networks and claimed “Dubai is the new Miami for narcos.” Critics warn his “total peace” strategy is faltering as attacks against the police escalate.

International partnerships that are changing the security landscape in South America

By Special Coverage - May 2, 2025

In a world of evolving transnational crime, global cooperation is key. The UAE reaffirms its commitment to Interpol’s efforts in South America, highlighting the power of shared intelligence and partnerships to build a safer, united international community.

Colombia’s Indigenous Minga descend on Bogotá for May Day Protests

By The City Paper Staff - April 30, 2025

More than 16,000 Indigenous protesters have arrived in Bogotá ahead of May Day marches supporting President Petro’s reform agenda. Their occupation of the National University sparked tensions after confrontations with students and reports of machete-armed individuals. Authorities are coordinating security as mass demonstrations are expected across the capital on Thursday.

Colombian family among victims in deadly Vancouver Festival attack

By The City Paper Staff - April 30, 2025

A Colombian family was among 11 people killed when a vehicle drove into crowds at Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Day festival. Vigils are being held citywide. The suspect, Adam Kai-Ji Lo, faces multiple murder charges. Prime Minister Mark Carney attended one of the memorials.

IMF Suspends Colombia’s $9.8bn Credit Line over fiscal concerns

By The City Paper Staff - April 28, 2025

The IMF has suspended Colombia’s $9.8bn credit line, citing rising public debt and fiscal risk. President Petro responded with a personal attack on IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva, sparking political backlash. Analysts warn the move could hurt investor confidence and raise borrowing costs amid global financial uncertainty.

Germany and Colombia sign Migration Partnership aimed at curbing asylum claims

By The City Paper Staff - April 24, 2025

Germany and Colombia have signed a joint declaration to expand legal migration and curb irregular flows. The agreement aims to reduce asylum claims and promote labour, education, and training opportunities for Colombians, amid Germany’s push to fill skilled worker shortages.

Colombia’s Petro delivers offhand remark regarding U.S visa status

By The City Paper Staff - April 22, 2025

Colombia’s Gustavo Petro has once again stirred controversy with the United States after claiming that the Department of State may have revoked his travel visa.

Pope Francis, Advocate of Colombia’s Peace Accord, Dies at 88

By The City Paper Staff - April 21, 2025

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and tireless advocate for Colombia’s 2016 peace accord with FARC rebels, died at 88. His 2017 visit helped heal a war-torn nation. Revered globally for championing reconciliation, he bridged faith and diplomacy during a transformative era for the Catholic Church.

An Aedes Aegypti mosquito bites a human.

Colombia declares national health emergency with Yellow Fever outbreak

By The City Paper Staff - April 19, 2025

Colombia has declared a national health emergency amid a yellow fever outbreak, with 76 cases and 34 deaths reported. President Gustavo Petro has ordered a mass vaccination campaign, targeting both rural and urban areas. Bogotá has set up immunization points at bus terminals and El Dorado Airport to curb further spread.

Bogotá’s VII Classical Music Festival showcases the Sound of the Americas

By The City Paper Staff - April 14, 2025

From Philip Glass to Piazzolla, the seventh edition of Bogotá’s acclaimed classical music festival Bogotá Es América pays homage to the continent’s vast sonic landscape. The festival hosted by Teatro Mayor will present 40 concerts, 11 of which are free to the public.

Inside the Paradises and Enchanted Gardens of Colombian Art at MAMU

By The City Paper Staff - April 11, 2025

An exhibition at Bogotá’s Museo de Arte Miguel Urrutia (MAMU) traces centuries of Colombian artists’ relationship with nature – through oil, ink, watercolor and flowers.

Basque Ambassadors 2025: Eight Chefs redefine Euskadi’s culinary frontiers

By Richard Emblin - April 10, 2025

The Basque Ambassadors Awards 2025 tributed eight chefs who are more than culinary artists but also agents for social change. Through their dedication to tradition, innovation, and sustainability, they redefine the global gastronomic landscape, one dish at a time.

Respected Italian biologist Alessandro Coatti found dismembered near Santa Marta

By Richard Emblin - April 9, 2025

Italian molecular biologist Alessandro Coatti, 42, was found dismembered near Santa Marta, Colombia, after traveling through South America. A former senior officer at the UK’s Royal Society of Biology, his death is being investigated for possible links to illegal armed groups operating in the Sierra Nevada.

Colombia’s peso struggles with Wall Street turmoil and oil slump

By The City Paper Staff - April 8, 2025

The Colombian peso slumped amid Wall Street’s sell-off and falling oil prices, but has steadied near COP$4,400 to the USD. The currency remains volatile as global markets rebound on hopes of tariff negotiations.

Another hit to US-Colombia relations after Noem describes “contentious” Petro meeting

By The City Paper Staff - April 7, 2025

U.S.- Colombia relations are under strain after U.S. Secretary Kristi Noem described her meeting with President Petro as “contentious,” claiming he was friends with cartel members. Colombia has categorially rejected the remarks, calling them false and damaging to bilateral cooperation on security and migration.

Bogotá in Top Three of Latin America for Foreign Direct Investment

By Richard Emblin - April 4, 2025

With 105 foreign investment projects in 2024, the Colombian capital stands out as a magnet for expansion in services, retail, and technology. Great connectivity for the business community, world-class cultural events and a highly-skilled workforce has secured Bogotá as a trusted destination for investors.