Traslated by Andrés Martínez Forero
On Friday, May 9, Mayor Galán attended the Centro de Felicidad (Happiness Center, CEFE) in the Chapinero District to commemorate Europe Day and the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration.
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In his remarks, the mayor highlighted the close collaboration between Bogotá, the EU, and its member states, all united in the pursuit of a more inclusive and equitable society.
“We’re working on securing funding for Metro Line 1 and Line 2 with the support of the European Union, through the European Investment Bank. The EU has played a key role in Bogotá’s transition to sustainable transport. We also benefit from their partnership in tackling water challenges, particularly through research initiatives to map the city’s underground water networks,” said Galán.
“Partnering with the EU gives Bogotá the tools to solve problems efficiently, learn from global best practices, receive expert guidance, and diversify our international relationships,” he added.
This partnership focuses on four strategic areas: sustainable mobility, basic sanitation, water management, and green finance — all priorities for leading global cities.
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Expanding Partnerships with European Nations
Germany
Through GIZ, Germany has allocated 12 million euros to support migrants and host communities in Bogotá, primarily through NGOs and grassroots organizations. GIZ has also supported the ‘Bogotá, My City, My Home’ initiative, helping modernize the city’s waste collection and recycling system.
Spain and the International Book Fair
Cultural collaboration with EU countries continues to thrive. This year, Spain was the guest of honor at the Bogotá International Book Fair, which featured a joint opening concert — a first for the event. Madrid will also be the featured city at next year’s edition of the Festival Internacional de Artes Visuales (FIAV) in Bogotá.
Cultural Events
Bogotá will host two major cultural events this year: the International Violin Competition and the Art and City Biennial, both supported by European partners.
Denmark
The city is actively working with Copenhagen on technical exchanges related to sustainable urban transport, solid waste processing, and water resource management.
Sweden
Sweden has been a key partner in Bogotá’s efforts to revamp its waste management system, funding feasibility studies for Colombia’s first biogas plant. Sweden has also supported gender equity initiatives in the city.
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A cooperation agreement was signed with Sweden earlier this year, and another with Finland is expected soon to further strengthen ties.
Under the Global Gateway initiative, Bogotá is also exploring EU-backed studies for new infrastructure projects, including additional cable car lines, a third metro line, and a downtown tram. The European Investment Bank has expressed interest in funding the Canoas wastewater treatment plant, especially as the national government has declined to provide a sovereign guarantee.
*This article was created using information provided by the Bogotá’s International Relations Office and curated by a journalist from Portal Bogotá. For suggestions, questions, or more information, visit Bogotá Te Escucha: https://bogota.gov.co/sdqs/
