The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have embarked on their highly anticipated four-day tour of Colombia, receiving a warm welcome from the South American nation. Upon their arrival in the capital city of Bogota, Harry and Meghan were greeted by Colombia’s vice-president Francia Marquez and her husband Rafael Yerney Pinillo. The couple spent around half an hour at the vice-president’s residence, where they exchanged welcome gifts and enjoyed traditional Colombian treats such as pandebono – a delicious cheese bread.
Inspiration for the Visit
During a press conference prior to their arrival, Vice-President Marquez revealed that she was inspired to invite Harry and Meghan to Colombia after watching their Netflix documentary. She expressed admiration for the couple’s story and felt compelled to extend an invitation for them to visit the country. Marquez emphasized the impact that Meghan’s presence could have in empowering women around the world and saw their visit as an opportunity to promote women’s leadership in Colombia.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s Netflix series, which delved into their struggles within the royal family and eventual decision to step back from royal duties, resonated with Vice-President Marquez. She viewed their trip as a unique opportunity to build bridges, combat cyber-bullying and digital violence, and advocate for women’s empowerment in Colombia.
A Special Visit
The Sussexes’ visit to Colombia is being closely followed, with many drawing parallels to an official royal overseas tour. This marks their second international trip this year, following a three-day visit to Nigeria at the invitation of the West African nation’s chief of defence staff. Vice-President Marquez, a trailblazing figure in Colombian politics, shared her admiration for Harry’s late mother, Princess Diana, during their initial meeting.
The royal couple’s synergy with Vice-President Marquez was evident as they discussed shared goals of promoting digital safety for children and empowering women. Marquez, known for her advocacy against illegal gold mining and environmental activism, has been a driving force for positive change in Colombia. Her personal journey from a housekeeper to the country’s first black vice-president serves as an inspiration to many.
Engaging with the Community
Harry and Meghan’s itinerary in Bogota included a visit to a local charter school, Colegio Cultura Popular, where they engaged with students in an Insight Session. The students shared their experiences with social media, technology, and navigating the digital landscape, highlighting both the positive and negative impacts on their lives. The Duchess commended the students for their insights and stressed the importance of maintaining real-life connections amidst the digital age.
The royal couple’s interaction with the students and teachers at Colegio Cultura Popular was met with excitement and enthusiasm. As they toured the school grounds and participated in recess activities, the Duke and Duchess were greeted with cheers and smiles from the students. Their genuine interest in understanding the challenges faced by young people in the digital era showcased their commitment to making a positive impact on the community.
Security Concerns
Ensuring the safety and security of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex during their visit to Colombia is of paramount importance. The Foreign Office has issued warnings against travel to certain parts of the country due to high kidnapping rates and ongoing conflict. Despite the peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), pockets of violence persist in some regions.
Harry’s concerns about security extend beyond their visit to Colombia, as he continues to navigate challenges related to his personal safety. His decision to forgo attending his uncle’s funeral in the UK underscores the complexities he faces in managing security risks. The Duke’s legal battle with the Home Office over changes to his security arrangements reflects his unwavering commitment to protecting his family in an increasingly volatile environment.
As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex redefine their roles post-royalty, their approach to security and travel reflects a new chapter in their lives. While they no longer undertake official royal visits at the request of the UK Government, their commitment to advocating for causes they believe in remains steadfast. The couple’s journey in Colombia serves as a testament to their dedication to making a positive impact on the world stage.
In conclusion, Harry and Meghan’s four-day tour of Colombia is a testament to their ongoing commitment to promoting positive change and empowering communities. Their visit to Bogota and interactions with Vice-President Marquez and local students highlight the importance of fostering connections and understanding across borders. As they navigate security challenges and embrace new opportunities, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue to inspire audiences around the world with their resilience and dedication to making a difference.
