Supporting Colombia’s Local Peace Councils

the U.S. National Security Strategy, which directs the United States to “catalyze regional efforts to build security and prosperity through strong diplomatic engagement.” It recognizes Colombia as a leading regional security partner in Latin America, and the need to affirm this partnership and reinforce Colombia’s ability to cement peace throughout its territory. This support is particularly important as Colombia addresses increasing challenges, to include the influx of 1.8 million Venezuelans and persistent narco-trafficking threats. Helping to increase state presence in Colombia’s conflict-affected rural areas will serve U.S. national security objectives.