Colombian First Lady arrives in China to promote educational cooperation

Photo: X account of Veronica Alcocer.

The First Lady of Colombia, Verónica Alcocer, is visiting China with the aim of strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. Her agenda is focused on promoting cooperation in areas such as education, science, culture, rural development and gender equality, according to Colombia’s presidential office.

During her stay, Alcocer will meet with important figures of the Chinese government, including Hua Chunying, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Lin Yi, Vice President of the All-China Women’s Federation.  This diplomatic visit takes place in a special context, since February 2025 will mark 45 years of diplomatic relations between Colombia and China. 

Alcocer, who kicked off her visit in Shanghai, plans to visit the Youth Exchange Center for Science, Technology and Culture, as well as Nankai University, in order to promote academic exchange and scientific development of the new generations. 

Via her social media channels, the First Lady confirmed that she has been in contact with universities and research centers where young Colombians are already being trained. In addition, during this visit, an exchange of professors is being negotiated, which would open new opportunities for cooperation in technical and higher education.

Rural development is also part of Alcocer’s focus. She will meet with members of the Soong Ching Ling Foundation, an organization dedicated to social welfare and support projects for vulnerable communities. The costs of this visit are being covered by the Colombian-Chinese Friendship Association.

However, the visit has generated criticism in some sectors, which question the effectiveness of these diplomatic trips and their real impact in Colombia. 

The First Lady has been the subject of controversy recently, especially after the regional Cundinamarca Court annulled her appointment as “special mission” ambassador, noting that the Constitution prohibits the president from appointing their spouse to such positions. This generated a debate on the legality of her role in diplomatic missions and the international trips she has made.

Main source:

Verónica Alcocer se fue otra vez de viaje diplomático: la primera dama está en China buscando fortalecer cooperación educativa y científica – Infobae.

Other related sources:

Otro viaje diplomático: la primera dama Verónica Alcocer está en China – ElColombiano.