Colombia

Colombia loses 2-1 to Croatia and ends unbeaten streak in friendly

March 27, 2026 Reported by AI Image generated by AI

Colombia's national team fell 2-1 to Croatia in a friendly match in Orlando, United States, ending a nine-match unbeaten streak. Néstor Lorenzo's side showed early intensity but struggled with finishing and defense. They face France next on March 29.

Neiva announces cultural and religious agenda for Holy Week

Neiva's city hall has organized a varied program for Holy Week, from March 29 to April 5, featuring sacred music concerts, processions, and liturgical acts. The Banda Sinfónica Metropolitana de Neiva will offer free performances in temples across various neighborhoods. Culture Secretary Tania Peñafiel highlighted a family-friendly agenda including the Walk of Light on March 31.

Mastercard and Mis Propias Finanzas announce financial education alliance

March 27, 2026 Reported by AI

Mastercard and Mis Propias Finanzas have announced an alliance to boost financial education in Colombia, starting with a podcast episode on March 28. Federico Martínez, Mastercard's regional president, will be the special guest.

Politics

Petro and Westcol debate security and education at Casa de Nariño

America

Contraloría detects regulatory gaps in Supersubsidio's precautionary measures

America

9th Brigade holds promotions ceremony for non-commissioned officers

Chinese embassy denies unfair competition in steel imports

China's embassy in Colombia responded to the government's 25% tariffs on steel imports from countries without a free trade agreement, denying unfair competition against the local steel industry. It emphasized that Chinese products are of good quality and competitive prices, accounting for less than 0.3% of total imports in 2025. It warned that restrictions would raise costs in other sectors and harm employment.

Juan Carlos Echeverry to assume Banco de Bogotá presidency in May

March 26, 2026 Reported by AI

Banco de Bogotá's Shareholders' Assembly confirmed Juan Carlos Echeverry Garzón as its new president starting May 6, replacing César Prado. Echeverry, with extensive experience in public and private sectors, takes over while Jorge Castaño Gutiérrez serves as interim president.

Government issues decree with 7% raise in Congress salaries

Colombia's national government issued Decree 0303 of 2026, setting a 7% salary increase for Senate and House of Representatives employees, retroactive to January 1. Monthly basic salaries range from $4,781,327 to $18,601,803 by grade. This is part of 23 decrees benefiting various public servants.

Foreign affairs, education and health lead February budget execution

March 25, 2026 Reported by AI

Colombia's Ministry of Finance reported that Foreign Affairs, Education and Health had the highest budget executions at the end of February 2026, at 16%, 14.4% and 13.3% respectively. The overall average across sectors was 10.4%. Science, Technology and Innovation, Sports and Housing lagged with 2.7%, 2.5% and 1%.

March 27, 2026 21:27