Colombia is a key country for stability in the region, said the vice president of the European Commission during a country visit.
According to newspaper El Tiempo, European official Neelie Kroes said the European Union, including its businesses, has been able to quickly recognize the enormous potential of Colombia. It is seen as an emerging power attractive for investment, not only for its economic growth, but for its stable legal framework with clear, unchanging rules.
“The European Union sees Colombia as a crucial player in the promotion of security and stability in the region and an important ally in multilateral forums,” said the official.
On the subject of the E.U.-Colombia trade agreement, Kroes said it would provide a greater European market for Colombian goods, with more exports leading to greater national income. She also said that agreement would cause the relationship between Colombia and the E.U. to be more permanent, egalitarian and bilateral.
Recognizing Colombia’s efforts to bring the Internet to all of its citizens, Kroes said “It is important for Colombia to appreciate the direct link between the development of ICT (information and communications technology) and the progress of the country on an economic as well as a on a social and democratic level.”
Kroes, who is also the commissioner responsible for the digital agenda, has been listed by Forbes as one of the 100 most important women in the world.