In a phone call, US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken congratulated the Colombian President-elect Gustavo Petro.

Gustavo Petro was elected the first-ever left-wing President of Colombia on Sunday, after beating millionaire businessman Rodolfo Hernandez in a tense and unpredictable runoff election.

During the call, Blinken highlighted the "shared democratic values" the two countries shared and pledged to strengthen the 200-year relationship.

The two also discussed common goals of tackling climate change, improving public health, and promoting inclusive economic opportunities. 

Blinken noted that the US supports the implementation of Colombia’s commitments under the 2016 Peace Accord and discussed how the U.S.-Colombia integrated counternarcotics strategy aligns with President-Elect Petro’s goal to diminish rural violence.

Earlier Yesterday, presidents of the majority of South American countries, including Venezuela, praised the election of the President.

#Colombians took to the streets to celebrate and hail #Colombia's first leftist president, #GustavoPetro. pic.twitter.com/ea8hJktE51

— Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) June 20, 2022