Colombia opens border with Venezuela after 14-month closure

Colombia has a border with Venezuela some 2,220 km long and has been the chief destination for Venezuelans fleeing their country’s social and economic crisis. The two countries have cut diplomatic relations.

The gradual opening of river and land crossings was authorized by Colombia on Wednesday. The interior ministry said biosecurity measures in light of the COVID-19 pandemic established by Colombia’s health ministry must be followed during crossings.

Colombia closed its borders in March 2020 and has reopened its borders with Brazil, Ecuador, Peru and Panama on May 19.

About 1.7 million Venezuelans reside in Colombia. The number could rise in the coming months following a decision by Colombian President Ivan Duque’s government to grant Venezuelan migrants temporary protective status for a period of 10 years.