Analysing the geoeconomic and geostrategic position of Colombia in the geopolitical equations of the Latin American region

Abstract

Colombia, as one of the strategic countries in Latin America, holds a significant position in the region’s geoeconomic and geopolitical equations. Due to its unique geographical location, rich natural resources, access to both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and membership in regional and international organizations such as the Pacific Alliance and the Organization of American States, Colombia plays a vital role in shaping regional economic policies and trends. This article aims to examine Colombia’s geoeconomic position within the geopolitical equations of Latin America and assess how this position contributes to the country's regional and global influence. Colombia’s geographical location has turned it into one of the most critical international hubs in the region. Its access to two oceans and its placement along global transport corridors have enabled Colombia to become a transit hub and a center for regional trade. These characteristics have enhanced the country’s geoeconomic role in strengthening its geopolitical position. Furthermore, Colombia’s significant natural resources — including oil, coal, coffee, and agricultural products — have played a considerable role in both its domestic economic development and its bargaining power in political and diplomatic interactions. An analysis of Colombia’s economic and geopolitical policies shows that the country aims to strengthen its regional influence by developing transportation infrastructure, regional ports, and railways, and participating in multilateral initiatives such as trade and economic agreements. Colombia’s membership in the Pacific Alliance and its extensive economic interactions with Latin American countries provide valuable opportunities for the nation to enhance its geoeconomic standing and influence regional geopolitical equations. However, challenges such as internal insecurity, the influence of drug cartels, administrative corruption, and socio-economic inequalities remain significant barriers to Colombia’s efforts to stabilize its position in regional geoeconomic and geopolitical equations. Alongside these domestic issues, the competition between global powers such as the United States and China in Latin America also plays a crucial role in determining Colombia’s position. The United States, as Colombia’s strategic partner, holds substantial influence over the country’s policies and economy, while China is increasingly seeking to expand its influence in the region through economic investments and infrastructure projects. The findings of this study indicate that Colombia is pursuing geoeconomy-based economic policies to balance its geopolitical relations and increase its regional and international power. The development of trade corridors and economic infrastructure, the strengthening of regional economic ties, and the utilization of natural resources are among Colombia’s key strategies to solidify its geoeconomic position in the region. In this context, Colombia strives to overcome internal challenges and leverage regional geopolitical opportunities to become a key player in Latin America’s geopolitical and geoeconomic equations.