Colombia, which suffered damage from a 7.4 magnitude earthquake, has remained silent on China's offer for disaster recovery assistance while accepting rescue teams from right-leaning countries such as the United States, Israel, Ecuador, and El Salvador. This has drawn attention to the diplomatic context, as the new Colombian government appears to be moving away from the pro-China policies of former President Gustavo Petro and is seeking to strengthen ties with the U.S.
According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), China expressed its willingness to assist with recovery efforts following the earthquake that struck western Colombia on August 11. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated on August 12 that "China wishes to provide support in a manner appropriate to Colombia's needs and within our capabilities." The China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) also indicated it would offer assistance as requested by Colombia. However, SCMP reported that the Chinese ambassador to Colombia, Liu Jianchao, requested to be the official contact for coordinating international support but received no response from the Colombian government for over a day.
In contrast, the Colombian Foreign Ministry has activated diplomatic channels with allied nations and established a command center for international cooperation. Rescue teams from the U.S., Israel, Ecuador, and El Salvador are expected to arrive on August 12. The U.S. has announced it will provide $15.5 million for disaster response and emergency shelters.
SCMP noted that the Colombian government's contrasting responses to U.S. and Chinese aid signals a shift under President Abelardo de la Espriella away from the pro-China stance of the Petro administration. Since taking office, de la Espriella has indicated a desire to prioritize strengthening relations with the U.S.
A notable example of this shift is the potential withdrawal from China's Belt and Road Initiative. Nate Morris, the U.S. ambassador nominee to Colombia, stated during his Senate confirmation hearing on August 5 that President de la Espriella has committed to exiting the Belt and Road Initiative. However, de la Espriella has not officially confirmed this, and the Colombian Foreign Ministry has not made any formal announcement regarding the withdrawal since his inauguration.
Recent controversies have also emerged surrounding Chinese companies involved in local infrastructure projects. The China Harbour Engineering Company, part of a consortium constructing the Bogotá Metro Line 1, is currently under investigation by local prosecutors for allegedly demanding cash from subcontractors.
During the Petro administration, economic and diplomatic relations between China and Colombia significantly strengthened. As trade increased, China became Colombia's second-largest trading partner, with Chinese companies heavily involved in major infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Bogotá Metro.
Meanwhile, the impact of the earthquake in Colombia continues to grow. As of the evening of August 12, President de la Espriella reported at least 265 confirmed fatalities three days after the quake. Nearly 500 people are reported missing, and approximately 25,800 households have been affected. Civil organizations estimate that the number of missing persons could be as high as 4,100.
As the situation worsens, President de la Espriella has declared a state of economic emergency for recovery efforts and a national period of mourning.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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