Commissioner Hogan and Minister Trujillo took stock of the excellent bilateral relations between the European Union and Colombia. They stressed the importance of the Free Trade Agreement between the EU and Colombia, the benefits that it delivered since 2013 in different areas including in agri-food. In this respect, the meeting was a good opportunity for both sides to discuss specific issues that touch upon trade on agricultural products and to identify avenues for cooperation to better exploit commercial opportunities for the benefit of farmers and businesses.

Commissioner Hogan and Minister Trujillo underlined the importance of implementing the Peace Agreement. Commissioner Hogan reiterated the EU's commitment to support Colombia on its path towards sustainable peace, for the benefit of the Colombian people. In this context, steps further were agreed concerning a mutual agreement on organics between the EU and Colombia while the EU stands ready to share experience on rural development and veterinary and phytosanitary issues to create the right environment for business and investment opportunities.

Finally, sharing the significance of the contribution of geographical indications to local farmers and food producers of both sides, it was agreed to proceed further with protection of 9 new geographical indications of Colombia.

Via ec.europa.eu