«In commemorating the 208th anniversary of Colombia’s independence, we want to give special recognition to three Spanish friends, among many good friends we have here», said Ambassador Alberto Furmanski before imposing the Grand Cross of the Order of San Carlos on Alfredo Martínez, Chief of Protocol of the King’s Household; the Knight’s Cross of the Order of San Carlos to Jaime de los Santos, Minister of Culture of Madrid’s Community; and the National Order of Merit in the rank of Commander to Carlos Urroz, director of ARCO.
During the reception that took place yesterday in his residence, the ambassador made a review of the last years to emphasize that «the Government fulfilled Colombia: today we are a better country, we advance in the construction of peace, we have a stable economy and a solid democracy». Although he admitted that «there is no bed of roses» and that the peace process has generated a social fracture, he assured that «it has also generated greater consensus and has the support of the International Community, where Spain has been fundamental». «The end of the conflict is irreversible,» he concluded.
Regarding the activity of the Embassy, Alberto Furmanski enumerated several special moments «unforgettable», such as the reading of ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude‘, the three times that the Embassy has been alternate headquarters for ARCO or the recent auction in favor of the native Guambianos, among others.
«We take from Spain his fascinating way of seeing life and how this country faces the least expected changes», the ambassador added before his near return to Colombia: «We will carry you all in our hearts».
Text and photos: A. Rubio. 13/07/2018
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