LatinNews Daily - 13 August 2026

*Colombia’s new President Abelardo de la Espriella has declared an economic emergency following the powerful earthquake which struck the west of the country on 10 August. Writing on social media, he said that this would enable “exceptional measures that will allow us to assist the affected families and accelerate the reconstruction of the affected areas”. He said that measures being planned by the government include “temporary relief on public utility payments, rental subsidies for those who lost their homes, tax and financial relief, economic support for the most vulnerable families, and support mechanisms for affected traders and small businesses”. De la Espriella also announced the creation of a “miracle fund” to channel national and international finance into the reconstruction of hospitals, education facilities, houses, roads, airports, and other infrastructure. In addition, he promised “measures to reactivate the economy, stimulate investment, and create jobs in affected territories”.