On February 28, 2012, Vice Premier Li Keqiang met with Colombian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maria Angela Holguin in Ziguangge, Zhongnanhai.

Calling Colombia an important country in Latin America, Li hailed the smooth growth of bilateral ties since the forging of diplomatic ties 32 years ago. In particular, bilateral ties have achieved sustained, rapid development in recent years, he said, citing improved political mutual trust, fruitful cooperation in trade, culture, education, technology and tourism, and sound coordination in global affairs. "China has always been developing ties with Colombia from a strategic level, and hopes to work closely with the country to enhance pragmatic cooperation, provide a secure, fair and predictable environment for enterprises and push forward bilateral ties," Li said.

As the international pattern is undergoing profound adjustments, the global status and role of Latin America is on the rise, the vice premier said. As developing countries and important trading partners, China and Latin American countries enjoy broad common interests on major issues regarding world peace and development, he said. The two economies are highly complementary and enjoy broad prospects for cooperation. Li called on both sides to further cooperation in various areas and expand trade and investment to bring benefits to both peoples and safeguard the interests of vast developing countries.

Holguin, for her part, said Colombia highly values its relations with China, and hopes to strengthen trade and personnel exchanges with the country. Colombia is ready to offer secure and favorable conditions for Chinese companies in their investment and participation in infrastructure construction in Colombia, she said.