Presidents Daniel Noboa and Gustavo Petro met in the Galapagos to discuss initiatives on environmental protection, border cooperation, and issues like drug trafficking. They recognized the Mataje River area as a critical site for combating illegal economies and emphasized the need for collaboration to safeguard natural resources and promote legal economic activities.
On Sunday, Presidents Daniel Noboa of Ecuador and Gustavo Petro of Colombia convened at the Charles Darwin Research Station located in the Galapagos Islands to engage in discussions regarding environmental initiatives, cooperation along their shared border, and other critical matters, including drug trafficking and energy integration. The leaders participated in a tour of the Galapagos National Park, addressing the pressing issues of climate change, border development, and the economic security of their nations.
The summit underscored the significance of collaboration between Ecuador and Colombia to enhance the welfare of their citizens and safeguard the region’s abundant natural resources. Following their meeting, President Noboa announced plans to establish a working group that would focus on evaluating and implementing projects aimed at fostering development in the border region, thereby benefiting local residents. He expressed gratitude to Colombia for its assistance during challenging periods through the provision of electricity, emphasizing the importance of interconnections in this regard.
During the discussions, President Petro highlighted the Mataje River area, which has been heavily impacted by organized crime and illicit drug trafficking activities. He identified it as a pivotal location plagued by “illegal economies” and called for efforts to transform it into an area supporting “legal economies.” Additionally, he pointed out mutual strengths in agricultural production, particularly coffee and cocoa, advocating for enhanced economic cooperation as a strategy to combat drug trafficking effectively.
President Petro visited the Galapagos on Saturday and was scheduled to depart for Mexico the following day, where he is expected to meet with President Claudia Sheinbaum.
The meeting between Presidents Noboa and Petro represents a strategic initiative aimed at addressing persistent challenges in the regions of Ecuador and Colombia. Both nations have grappled with issues such as drug trafficking and climate change, necessitating cooperative efforts to enhance border security and environmental conservation. The Galapagos Islands, as a UNESCO World Heritage site, serves as a fitting backdrop for discussions around ecological preservation and regional collaboration.
In summary, the summit between Presidents Noboa and Petro in the Galapagos Islands was a pivotal moment for advancing cooperation on environmental and border issues, as well as economic strategies to combat drug trafficking. The commitment to establish a working group highlights a shared vision for regional development, underscoring the importance of alliance between Ecuador and Colombia for the well-being of their populations and the preservation of their natural heritage.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
