Venezuelan interim leader Delcy Rodríguez announced a forthcoming meeting with Colombian President Gustavo Petro. The two leaders agreed to hold a binational meeting at the presidential level, according to a statement released via Rodríguez’s social media accounts.
Focus on Key Issues
The planned meeting aims to advance discussions on key economic, energy, and security issues, strengthening cooperation and respectful relations between the two countries. Rodríguez stated the goal is to pursue “understanding and shared benefits for the well-being of our people.”
Rumors of a potential meeting between Rodríguez and Petro circulated last week, but were initially denied by both the Colombian Foreign Ministry and sources in Caracas.
Colombia’s Stance
President Petro has been a consistent ally of the Venezuelan government, notably refusing to formally challenge Nicolás Maduro’s victory in the July 28, 2024 presidential elections. Since taking office, Petro has emphasized strengthening cooperation with Venezuela, particularly regarding border trade and gas imports – a project that has yet to materialize.
Bilateral trade between the two nations has been recovering since the reopening of borders in 2022, reaching $1.170 billion in 2025 – a 4.1 percent increase compared to 2024. This growth is largely driven by Colombian exports of food, chemicals, and plastics, according to data from the Colombia-Venezuela Chamber of Commerce. Despite this growth, trade remains below historical levels, with a 90-10 split favoring Colombia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the upcoming meeting between Delcy Rodríguez and Gustavo Petro?
The meeting aims to advance discussions on key economic, energy, and security issues, and to strengthen cooperation between Venezuela and Colombia.
Has there been previous discussion of a meeting between these leaders?
Yes, rumors of a meeting circulated last week, but were initially denied by both the Colombian Foreign Ministry and sources in Caracas.
What has been Colombia’s position toward the Venezuelan government?
Gustavo Petro has been an ally of the Venezuelan government, and did not challenge Nicolás Maduro’s victory in the 2024 presidential elections.
What impact will this meeting have on the future of relations between Colombia and Venezuela?
