Bogota: The Colombian government has announced a temporary suspension of its energy exports to Ecuador following Quito's decision to implement a 30% security tax on imports from Colombia. This development marks a significant shift in the energy trade dynamics between the two South American nations.

According to Anadolu Agency, the suspension was formalized through a resolution by Colombia's Energy Ministry, effectively halting International Electricity Transactions (TIE) with Ecuador. Energy Minister Edwin Palma Egea emphasized Colombia's commitment to energy integration and dialogue with neighboring countries but highlighted the current challenges in the energy system and trade framework. These challenges, he stated, make it impossible to continue international transactions without risking Colombia's own energy supply.

Minister Palma Egea expressed Colombia's willingness to resume energy trade once energy security is restored and a mutual trust environment is re-established between the two nations. He stressed that integration should not come at the cost of sovereignty or the well-being of the Colombian people.

The Colombian decision followed an announcement by Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa, who stated that his government would impose a 30% security tax on imports from Colombia, starting February 1. President Noboa justified the measure by pointing to a perceived lack of reciprocity and insufficient collaborative efforts against drug trafficking and illegal mining along the shared border.

President Noboa also linked the security tax to broader security concerns and diplomatic tensions, referencing a recent statement by Colombian President Gustavo Petro. President Petro had called for the release of former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas, who is currently imprisoned on corruption charges, further straining the diplomatic relations between the two countries.