Colombia and Venezuela Create Binational Zone Covering Zulia, Táchira, Norte de Santander Amid Security Concerns and Border Reopening

Colombia and Venezuela have agreed to create a binational economic zone encompassing the Venezuelan states of Zulia and Táchira and the Colombian department of Norte de Santander. The agreement has sparked political debate and concerns in Colombia due to the presence of criminal groups controlling parts of the border region. Former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe and other opposition figures have criticized the zone, describing it as a "gray area" where criminal organizations could gain de facto control with state support, potentially bolstering the Maduro regime. Despite these criticisms, Colombia's Minister of Commerce has defended the agreement, asserting that the binational zone does not infringe on national sovereignty. The border between Colombia and Venezuela was recently reopened following its closure during municipal elections. Additionally, Venezuela has resumed tariff-free imports of Brazilian products, according to the Roraima Chamber of Commerce.