Colombia and Venezuela Agree to Binational Economic Zone Including Zulia, Táchira, Norte de Santander Amid Uribe Criticism and Criminal Control Concerns

Colombia and Venezuela have agreed to establish a binational economic zone along their shared border, encompassing the Venezuelan states of Zulia and Táchira and the Colombian department of Norte de Santander. The initiative aims to promote investment and development in the region. However, the agreement has sparked intense political debate and criticism in Colombia. Opponents, including former President Álvaro Uribe and various political sectors, express concerns that the zone could undermine Colombian sovereignty by enabling increased influence of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and facilitating control by criminal groups. Critics describe the area as a "gray zone" where criminal organizations might gain de facto control with state support, potentially reinforcing Maduro's regime. The memorandum outlining the agreement has not been fully disclosed, raising additional worries about territorial, constitutional, and security risks. Colombian officials defending the project argue against the opposition, emphasizing the potential benefits of the binational zone.