On behalf of the Commission, I am very glad to sign this agreement which grants visa-free travel both to citizens of the Republic of Colombia travelling to the EU, and EU citizens travelling to Colombia for short stays of 90 days in any 180-day period.
Back in spring of last year, the EU took the political decision to grant visa-free travel to Colombians.
Today’s signature marks the culmination of this process.
I would like to thank our Colombian partners – President Santos, Foreign Minister Holguín and their collaborators – for the excellent cooperation throughout this process.
As from tomorrow, nationals of Colombia coming to the EU for tourism, business meetings, visits of family and friends, short-term training, journalism, sports events, or medical treatment do not need to apply for a visa, but can book their flights directly and come and stay whenever they want for up to 90 days.
I know that Colombia has been looking forward to this day, and I trust that this agreement will strongly contribute to strengthening our trade relations, cultural exchange as well people-to-people contacts between Europe and Colombia.
I am certain that the agreement will also further enhance our cooperation on migration matters and reinforce the already strong bilateral relations between the EU and Colombia.