Ecuador’s Noboa Meets JD Vance in Washington as Tensions With Colombia Deepen

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Washington DC: Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa met U.S. Vice President JD Vance in Washington on Wednesday as diplomatic tensions between Ecuador and neighboring Colombia continue to escalate.

Noboa’s visit focused on strengthening ties with the United States, expanding cooperation against drug trafficking, and discussing economic and security issues. Ecuador’s government described the trip as part of efforts to deepen bilateral relations with the Trump administration.

The meeting comes weeks after Ecuador imposed 100% tariffs on Colombian goods amid disputes over border security, illegal mining, and narcotics trafficking. Colombia responded with matching tariffs, further worsening relations between the two South American neighbors.

Noboa has openly criticized Colombian President Gustavo Petro for what he describes as insufficient action against criminal groups operating along the shared border. Since taking office in 2023, Noboa has pursued aggressive anti-crime measures, including expanded military operations against organized crime networks.

The Ecuadorian leader, considered a close ally of U.S. President Donald Trump, is also scheduled to meet lawmakers and address the Organization of American States during his visit.

Relations between Quito and Bogotá have deteriorated sharply in recent months due to disagreements over border security, trade measures, and the handling of former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas, whose case has become another source of political friction between the two governments

Pic : AFP