H.E. Solangel Ortiz Meija

Exploring opportunities that benefit both nations

Text: Martina Hošková and M. Zisso; Photo: Archive

Can you tell us a bit about yourself first?

I was born in Bogotá. I am a lawyer and have worked for the State for 32 years, of which 27 have been as a career diplomat.

I have served in Chile, the Netherlands, Jamaica, Costa Rica, and now as ambassador in the Czech Republic. Additionally, I was Director of Oceanic Affairs and Legal Advice at a subregional international organisation – the Permanent Commission for the South Pacific (CPPS). In Bogotá, I held positions as Legal Chief and Director of Migratory, Consular, and Citizen Service Affairs.

What made you become an ambassador?

My interest in international affairs, the opportunity to work in different areas of international relations, and my desire to better understand the world through my work.

And now, can you introduce your country?

Colombia is located in the north-west of South America, with coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean. It is the only country in South America with access to both oceans. Its population exceeds 53 million inhabitants. It is the second most biodiverse country in the world, the fourth in animal destinations, and the best for birdwatching.

It has immense cultural and gastronomic richness. This year, on 20th July, we celebrate the 215th anniversary of our independence.

How do you promote Colombia as a tourist destination?

As I just pointed out, Colombia is a country of natural and cultural diversity. The second most biodiverse country in the world, the fourth in animal destinations, and the top for birdwatching. We have the greatest variety of butterflies, whale-watching opportunities, many beaches on two oceans, the Amazon rainforest, deserts, and developed cities with a rich gastronomic scene, plus the charm and friendliness of the Colombian people.

What is the current economic state of Colombia?

We have a growth rate between 2.5% and 3%, an inflation of 4%, and a GDP per capita of US$6,500. We face many challenges to reverse inequality in Colombia, which is why we promote market openness and opportunities – through exports, attracting investments, and tourism.

Colombia enjoys a special status with NATO. Can you explain how it works?

Colombia is not a member of NATO, but since 2018 it has been a global partner of the organisation. This status allows Colombia to collaborate with NATO in areas such as defence, maritime security, and technology, as well as participate in information exchange and experience-sharing processes. Colombia is the only Latin American country with this designation.

You are the first resident Ambassador of Colombia in the Czech Republic. Can you share some impressions from your first year here?

I knew the Czech Republic as a tourist, and I have always found it a country rich in history, that preserves its symbols and architecture, and is consistent with its values. Returning to the Czech Republic as an Ambassador has been interesting – it is a country with a lot of history, in a privileged geographic position – like Colombia – and with an interesting relationship with its neighbours, and, in general, with the European Union countries.

What is the current status of Czechia–Colombia relations?

With the opening of the Colombian embassy in the Czech Republic last year, we now have embassies in both countries and are advancing cooperation projects. This relaunch of relations will deepen efforts to explore other commercial and diplomatic opportunities that benefit both nations.

This interview is conducted on the occasion of your national day. What are your wishes for both your country and the Czech Republic?

For Colombia, I wish that peace processes are implemented and achieved with all involved actors, which will allow for better development and wellbeing for Colombians. For the Czech Republic, I wish it to continue being a safe country, with peace and good relations with its surroundings.