Abelardo de la Espriella was officially sworn in as the new president of Colombia during a ceremony in the southwestern city of Cali. The 48-year-old millionaire lawyer and businessman takes office with tackling rebel organizations and combating drug trafficking high on his government's agenda. In his first words as president, he expressed deep gratitude to Lord Jesus Christ for blessing Colombia.
Security agenda and prison plans
During his oath, Espriella swore before God and promised the people that he would faithfully respect the Constitution and laws of Colombia. He has promised to intensify operations against rebel movements and drug cartels in Colombia, which is the world's largest producer of cocaine. He also announced the construction of huge prisons, praising the policies of President Nayib Bukele in El Salvador and President Daniel Noboa in Ecuador.
US ties and peace talks
The assumption of the presidency by the politically inexperienced leader strengthens ties between Bogota and Washington. Espriella was supported by US President Donald Trump during the election campaign in Colombia. His inauguration ends peace negotiations with rebels that had been started by his leftist predecessor, Gustavo Petro.
