Relations+with+the+US+and+South+America

Colombian relations with the US Colombian relations with South American countries
 * US and Colombia have had warm relations since 1822.
 * The US was among the first countries to recognize Colombia as a sovereign state.
 * US Congress made aid and assistance more flexible to Colombia upon realizing drug trade and terrorism are interlinked.
 * USAID invested nearly $750 million in Colombia since 2007.
 * US supports Colombian government and its efforts in strengthening democracy, promoting of human rights and the rule of law among other initiatives.
 * In 1995-1997, Colombia and US signed agreements pertaining to environmental protection, chemical control and asset sharing.
 * Colombia and the US entered a Trade Promotion Agreement in 2006.
 * Colombia has often struggled with Venezuela, despite both becoming independent under Simón Bolívar.
 * After the dissolution of the Gran Colombia, their relationship fluctuated between co-operation and tension.
 * Tensions have increased when Chavez decided to nationalize some Colombian companies in Venezuela.
 * Colombia has had conflicts with Nicaragua over San Andrés y Providencia Islands.
 * Colombia is a member of the Union of South American Nations, Latin American Economic Association and the Latin American Integration Association among others.