History of Colombia–France relations in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 28, 2026

Colombia and France share a history of bilateral relations, cooperating on various fronts including economic and political matters. Both countries are members of international organizations like the OECD and the United Nations, indicating a shared commitment to global cooperation and development. The relationship has evolved over time, marked by periods of close collaboration and mutual support, and occasionally by diplomatic challenges. Overall, the two nations maintain a functional and often cordial relationship based on shared values and strategic interests.

1952: Agreement on Cultural Exchanges

In 1952, Colombia and France signed an Agreement on Cultural Exchanges to promote cultural understanding and cooperation between the two nations.

1953: Agreement on Air Transport

In 1953, Colombia and France formalized their aviation relationship with an Agreement on Air Transport, facilitating travel and commerce between the countries.

1963: Agreement on Technical and Scientific Cooperation

In 1963, Colombia and France established an Agreement on Technical and Scientific Cooperation to foster collaboration in technological and scientific fields.

September 1964: French President Charles de Gaulle visits Colombia

In September 1964, French President Charles de Gaulle made an official visit to Colombia, becoming the first French head of state to visit the country. During this visit in September 1964, President de Gaulle met with Colombian President Guillermo León Valencia.

1979: Agreement for Cultural Cooperation

In 1979, Colombia and France reinforced their cultural ties with an Agreement for Cultural Cooperation, aiming to enhance cultural exchanges and understanding.

1996: Agreement for University Cooperation and Agreement for Technical Military Cooperation

In 1996, Colombia and France signed an Agreement for University Cooperation to encourage educational exchanges and collaboration. Also, in 1996, both countries signed an Agreement for Technical Military Cooperation to enhance military collaboration.

1998: Agreement in Criminal Matters and Mutual Legal Assistance

In 1998, Colombia and France formalized an Agreement in Criminal Matters and Mutual Legal Assistance, strengthening cooperation in legal and criminal matters.

2014: Agreement on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investments

In 2014, Colombia and France signed an Agreement on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investments to encourage and protect investments between the two countries.

2015: Agreement to Avoid Double Taxation and Prevent Tax Evasion with respect to Income and Wealth Taxes

In 2015, Colombia and France agreed to avoid double taxation and prevent tax evasion with respect to income and wealth taxes.

2016: Agreement on a Vacation and Work Program and Agreement on Financial Cooperation

In 2016, Colombia and France established an Agreement on a Vacation and Work Program to facilitate travel and work opportunities for young citizens. Also in 2016, an Agreement on Financial Cooperation was signed.

January 2017: French President François Hollande visits Colombia

In January 2017, French President François Hollande visited Colombia, marking the first visit by a French president in 25 years. Also in January 2017, both nations celebrated the France-Colombia Year, a series of cultural events highlighting the cultural richness of both countries.

June 2017: Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos visits France

In June 2017, Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos visited France to begin the dual-year celebrations and met with French President Emmanuel Macron. This visit in June 2017 reinforced the ties between the two nations.

2017: Agreement for Tourism Cooperation

In 2017, Colombia and France signed an Agreement for Tourism Cooperation to enhance tourism between the two nations.

June 2019: Colombian President Iván Duque Márquez travels to Paris

In June 2019, Colombian President Iván Duque Márquez visited Paris to discuss the Colombian peace process, the ongoing Crisis in Venezuela, and the increasing migration of Venezuelan nationals to Colombia.

2019: Agreement of Cooperation in Matters of Environment and Natural Resources

In 2019, Colombia and France signed an Agreement of Cooperation in Matters of Environment and Natural Resources to collaborate on environmental protection and natural resource management.