Bogotá: Mr. Nigel Clarke, Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), issued the following statement at the conclusion of his visit to Colombia from September 25–28, 2026.
“I would like to thank Vice President José Manuel Restrepo, Finance Minister Miguel Gómez, Governor Leonardo Villar, and members of the Board of Directors of Banco de la República for their warm hospitality and constructive discussions during my visit to Bogotá. I also appreciated the opportunity to engage with business leaders, representatives of civil society organizations, students, and academics. These exchanges provided a valuable opportunity to learn more about the new administration’s priorities, hear diverse perspectives on Colombia’s opportunities and challenges, and reinforce the long-standing partnership between Colombia and the IMF.
“Colombia can draw on a long record of economic resilience, strong policy frameworks, an independent central bank, and a resilient financial system as it confronts today’s challenges and builds the foundation for future growth. These strengths will be particularly important in a global environment characterized by elevated uncertainty and more frequent shocks, but also by opportunities created by rapid technological change.
“I welcomed the authorities’ commitment to restoring fiscal discipline and transparency, rebuilding investor confidence, and strengthening the conditions for macroeconomic stability and private-sector led growth. Timely and credible action to reduce fiscal imbalances can help strengthen confidence, lower borrowing costs, and create more favorable conditions for private investment and job creation. As reforms move forward, continued attention to priority social spending and support for vulnerable households will help ensure that the benefits of stronger growth are widely shared.
“I also welcomed efforts to advance reforms that can boost productivity and strengthen Colombia’s growth potential. Reducing barriers to investment, improving security, addressing infrastructure gaps and informality, and strengthening the rule of law and regulatory predictability can help unlock private sector dynamism. Continued investment in energy infrastructure, education, and skills development will also be essential to help Colombia seize the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.”
“Throughout my visit, I was encouraged by the broad recognition that addressing Colombia’s fiscal challenges and unlocking its considerable potential will require sustained dialogue, and close cooperation among policymakers, the private sector, and civil society.
“The IMF greatly values its longstanding partnership with Colombia and stands ready to support the authorities as they address their fiscal challenges through a homegrown reform program. In that context, I welcomed President Abelardo de la Espriella’s request for deeper engagement and reaffirmed our commitment to working together to create the conditions for sustainable and strong growth for all Colombians. We look forward to welcoming a delegation from the Ministry of Finance to Washington, D.C., next week to continue our close and constructive dialogue.”
“Finally, I wish to reiterate the IMF’s solidarity with the people of Colombia following the tragic earthquake. We extend our deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones and our sympathy to all those whose lives and livelihoods have been affected.”
