Former Colombian President Iván Duque has joined the newly established Advisory Council of the Inter-American Development Bank (BID), stepping into an international advisory role created in 2026. The advisory body brings together public and private sector leaders to provide strategic vision on the future of Latin America and the Caribbean, anticipating economic, political, and geopolitical trends.
Global Figures Join the 2026 Advisory Council
The newly formed external consultation space unites figures from politics, finance, economics, and international security. Its members meet periodically with the BID’s leadership and participate in year-round discussions regarding primary regional challenges. Among those named alongside Duque are Azucena Arbeleche, former president and minister of Economy and Finance of Uruguay; Marcelo Claure, co-chair of Brightstar Capital Partners; Arminio Fraga, founding partner of Gávea Investimentos; and José M. Linares, senior executive vice president of Banco Santander and global head of Santander CIB.
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Additional members listed in the advisory group include Rob Mosbacher, president of Mosbacher Energy Company; Sir Andrew Steer, academic at Georgetown University and the London School of Economics; and José María Viñals, former chairman of Standard Chartered Group. The roster also features General Laura Richardson, former commander of United States Southern Command.
Did You Know? The Inter-American Development Bank established its new Advisory Council in 2026 specifically to help the institution anticipate regional trends, identify opportunities, and strengthen its relationships with influential global actors.
Strategic Focus and Regional Commentary
Through this designation, the council aims to use the knowledge and experience of its members to guide BID strategies against shifting regional dynamics. Duque expressed enthusiasm for the appointment via social media, stating it is an honor to integrate the new advisory group for an institution he considers fundamental for regional development. Alongside his international appointment, Duque recently evaluated the offensive launched by the government of Abelardo De La Espriella against criminal groups, remarking that he evaluates it very well.
Regarding broader diplomatic matters in the region, Duque emphasized a firm stance on regional governance. “The only way in which Venezuela can glimpse a better future is by giving a rapid transition to democracy,” Duque stated.
What May Happen Next
As the newly formed council begins its operations, members are likely to hold their scheduled periodic meetings with BID leadership to shape forthcoming institutional strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the BID Advisory Council?
The organization serves as an external consultation space created in 2026 to help the Grupo BID anticipate trends, identify opportunities for Latin America and the Caribbean, and strengthen its ties with global leaders.
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Who serves on the council alongside Iván Duque?
The roster includes Azucena Arbeleche, Marcelo Claure, Arminio Fraga, José M. Linares, Rob Mosbacher, Sir Andrew Steer, José María Viñals, and General Laura Richardson.
What are the responsibilities of the council members?
Members participate in periodic meetings with the bank’s leadership and engage in discussions throughout the year regarding major regional challenges and strategic institutional orientations.
How will these high-level international advisory appointments directly shape economic development projects across Latin America and the Caribbean in the coming years?
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