The recent four-day visit of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Colombia has sparked controversy due to its cost to the nation. According to figures released by the vice-president's office, the trip amounted to almost £45,000, prompting debate about public expenditure and diplomatic priorities.
Maria Fernanda Cabal, a right-wing senator and political opponent of Vice-President Francia Marquez, who organized the visit, has labeled the expenditure as "wasteful." Cabal's office revealed that the total cost to Colombian taxpayers was 244,245,305 pesos (approximately £44,419.26).
The expenses covered internal transportation and security for the duration of the visit. Notably, the Sussexes paid for their own flights, accommodation in Bogotá, and general expenses. Security costs for engagements in San Basilio de Palenque, a historically significant town founded by escaped slaves, amounted to nearly £7,500. In Cali, where the couple attended cultural events and forums, security expenses reached about £4,500.
It's worth noting that San Basilio de Palenque, visited by the royal couple, was declared a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage site in 2005, highlighting its cultural significance. The town represents an important part of Colombia's diverse heritage, with the country recognizing over 60 indigenous languages alongside Spanish.
The total cost encompasses an eight-day period, including four days of advance visits by staff for logistical preparations. This comprehensive approach reflects the complexity of organizing high-profile international visits.
The Colombian government has defended the expenditure, stating that the visit "contributed to continue demonstrating that Colombia is a country of confluence for global causes, a country capable of hosting diverse interests, as well as an attractive destination for investment, tourism and business." They emphasized the positive international media attention garnered by the visit.
Colombia, the third-most populous country in Latin America, boasts remarkable biodiversity and cultural richness. It's home to over 4,000 orchid species, its national flower, and is the world's leading producer of emeralds. These unique attributes underscore the government's emphasis on promoting the country as a tourist destination.
However, the criticism of the visit's cost comes amid pressing domestic issues in Colombia, including healthcare and social housing crises. This context has intensified the debate over the allocation of public resources and national priorities.
"During this visit, the country received the attention of international media and the world who were given the message that Colombia is changing positively."
The Sussex visit to Colombia highlights the delicate balance between international diplomacy, national image-building, and addressing domestic needs. As Colombia continues to position itself on the global stage, discussions about the value and cost of such high-profile visits are likely to persist.