Welcome Message

It is an honor to chair the Delegation for relations with the countries of the Andean Community (DAND), whose mission is to contribute to the strengthening of institutional relations between Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia and the European Union. These countries constitute an expanding geographic region with which we are joined not only by cultural but also political, economic and commercial ties that we wish to continue promoting.

Our work agenda includes, in addition to regular meetings in the European Parliament, an annual mission to some of the countries of the Andean Community in order to hold meetings with elected representatives, senior officials, businessmen and prominent members of civil society.

Likewise, the DAND closely follows the political situation of the four Andean Pact countries and organizes ad hoc delegations when to be present at relevant events or appointments.

During this legislature, the work of this Delegation in relation to the development of the peace process in Colombia and the Venezuelan migration crisis, which is seriously affecting the entire region, will be of particular importance.

We are also attentive to the debates related to the application of the global trade agreement with Colombia, Peru and Ecuador. It is an agreement that will allow us to open our respective markets and increase the stability and predictability of trade and investment.

The short-term visa waiver process for Ecuadorian citizens traveling to Europe will be another issue that will deserve our attention.

Finally, my wish is that our work agenda also includes digitization, industry 4.0., Research, innovation and the fight against climate change, issues of a global nature that demand a joint response.

Pilar del Castillo