Washington, D.C. – While on an official visit to Colombia, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) met with key leaders to discuss the future of U.S.-Colombian relations. During his first day in Colombia, Rubio met with Colombian Vice President Germán Vargas Lleras, Minister of Finance Mauricio Cardenas, former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe, and members of the Renacer Foundation - a non-profit organization to fight human trafficking.

BACKGROUND:

Florida is home to more Colombian immigrants to the United States than any other state. In addition to the close ties between U.S. citizens and Colombians, Colombia is Florida’s second largest foreign export market. In recent years, almost 40% of U.S. exports to Colombia have moved through Florida.

Photos of Rubio’s first day in Colombia are available below and can be credited to Rubio’s office. They can be viewed in higher quality here.

 

Rubio meets with members of the Renacer Foundation to highlight the need for a strong relationship between the U.S. and Colombia to help combat child sex tourism, and deter U.S. citizens from travelling to Colombia to exploit its children.

Rubio meets with Vice President Germán Vargas Lleras.

 

Rubio meets with Minister of Finance Mauricio Cardenas.

 

Rubio meets with Former President Álvaro Uribe.