Abelardo de la Espriella officially took office as the president of Colombia after a swearing-in ceremony in the southwestern city of Cali, marking the start of a new political era.
The assumption of the presidency by the 48-year-old millionaire strengthens ties between Bogota and Washington. It also ends peace negotiations with rebels that had been launched by his leftist predecessor, Gustavo Petro.
During the ceremony, de la Espriella swore before God and promised the public that he would faithfully respect the Constitution and laws of Colombia.
Campaign promises and security policy
Inexperienced in politics, the millionaire lawyer and businessman received support from US President Donald Trump during the election campaign in Colombia.
De la Espriella pledged to intensify operations against rebel movements and drug cartels in Colombia, which is the world's largest cocaine producer.
He also announced the construction of massive prisons, praising the security policies carried out by Nayib Bukele in El Salvador and Daniel Noboa in Ecuador.
