Ecuador Recalls Ambassador to Colombia Over Comments by Former President Jorge Glas

Ecuador Recalls Ambassador from Colombia Amid Tensions Over High-Profile Case

Ecuador has recalled its ambassador from Colombia over remarks made by the country’s left-wing leader Gustavo Petro regarding a high-profile criminal case involving former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas. The case, which has sparked tensions across Latin America, involves Glas’s involvement in corruption and his subsequent imprisonment.

Glas, who is currently serving a lengthy prison sentence for corruption, had sought asylum in the Mexican embassy in Quito two years ago. Ecuador’s right-wing government, led by President Daniel Noboa, authorized the raid on the embassy to arrest Glas. The incident has been criticized as a violation of international law and Ecuador’s sovereignty.

The tensions between Ecuador and Colombia have escalated with the recall of Ambassador Arturo Felix Wong from Bogota. Ecuador’s Foreign Minister Gabriela Sommerfeld confirmed the move in a local radio interview, stating that the criticisms of the Glas case were “uncalled for.” Noboa has also denounced critics, including Petro, who consider Glas to be a “political prisoner.”

Petro had made social media posts on the anniversary of the Mexican embassy raid, which took place on April 5, 2024. The incident resulted in Mexico breaking its diplomatic relations with Ecuador and has left a lasting impact on their relationship. Glas was sentenced to an additional 13 years in prison for misuse of public funds, in addition to previous corruption cases.

The Odebrecht scandal, which involved government officials across Latin America taking bribes in exchange for issuing favorable contracts, also played a role in Glas’s imprisonment. Colombia granted citizenship to Glas last September and has called for his transfer into Colombian custody. Petro has expressed concerns about Glas’s health and wellbeing, stating that he is a “political prisoner” who requires international human rights organizations to safeguard his rights.

The recall of Ambassador Wong marks the latest sign of cross-border strife between Ecuador and Colombia. The situation remains tense, with both countries continuing to exchange statements on the matter.

Source: Al Jazeera