Translated by Andrés Martínez Forero

Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán, along with Acting Secretary General Mauricio Moncayo and Counselor for International Relations Sandra Borda Guzmán, met with Michael Camilleri, Assistant Administrator for the Latin America and Caribbean Bureau at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The meeting aimed to reinforce the strong cooperation between the international agency and Bogotá.

(Check out: 'Visit Bogotá': Your Mobile Guide to Colombia’s Capital)

During the discussion at the Intégrate Center of SuperCADE on Carrera 30, Mayor Galán highlighted the city’s key initiatives focused on the care and inclusion of international migrant populations and the significance of hemispheric cooperation. He emphasized that Bogotá is a city of opportunities and a model of integration, insisting on the importance of "building upon what is built and considering migration as part of the city’s development."

Moreover, he reiterated the commitment to continue support from USAID and to strengthen Bogotá’s efforts in improving institutional capacities to manage migration in the city.

He noted that his mandate’s challenge lies in creating conditions for effective inclusion: bridging gaps for the exercise of rights and duties, boosting all initiatives stemming from integration, and ensuring daily life in Bogotá is experienced in an equitable environment.

Counselor for International Relations, Sandra Borda Guzmán, pointed out that Bogotá is an international benchmark for migrant integration and thanked USAID for their shared commitment to advancing this inclusive, equitable, and integrative mission.

“Bogotá has set an example as a city that welcomes and integrates migrants into our productive capacity and society. In this endeavor, the partnership with USAID has been crucial for making this social, cultural, and economic integration a reality. Today, from SuperCADE, we are showcasing the results of this joint effort, thanks to USAID’s support and coordinated work with multiple entities, enabling us to provide services and address the needs of Venezuelan citizens,” stated Sandra Borda Guzmán.

(Also read. Bogotá Ranks Among Top Three Cities for Business Tourism in Latin America)

Intégrate Centers

The launch of 'Intégrate' in Bogotá marks a new milestone in the strategy to socially, economically, and culturally integrate migrants, serving hundreds of families arriving in the Colombian capital in search of better opportunities. 'Intégrate' is available at three key locations within the CADE Services Network, where local and national public entities collaborate to offer comprehensive services to citizens.

At these sites, individuals can apply for Temporary Protection Permits, receive guidance on training programs by the National Learning Service (SENA), or register with the Public Employment Agency. Additionally, visitors can learn about social service eligibility, explore educational opportunities available for their children, or receive legal advice and specialized psychosocial interventions for women.

Entities Involved in the Intégrate Strategy - Bogotá

• Secretariat for Economic Development
• Secretariat for Education
• Secretariat for Social Integration
• Secretariat for Women’s Affairs
• Secretariat for Planning
• Secretariat for Health
• Bogotá’s Institute of Recreation and Sports – IDRD
• Migración Colombia
• National Learning Service – SENA.