On July 22, President Gustavo Petro, who has faced criticism for Barranquilla (Atlántico) losing its bid to host the 2027 Pan American Games, made headlines in the sports world. It was announced that he will attend the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, scheduled for July 26 in Paris, France.
According to sources from the EFE Agency, Petro plans to travel to the “City of Light” to participate in the ceremony. He will also inaugurate the “Casa Colombia,” a promotional initiative by the government to showcase the country’s tourist and cultural attractions, similar to the event held in Davos, Switzerland, during the World Economic Forum, which had sparked significant controversy at the time.
The president will be accompanied by the Minister of Sports, Luz Cristina López, who replaced Astrid Bibiana Rodríguez. Rodríguez has also been implicated in the loss of the continental games bid. Joining them are Culture Minister Juan David Correa, Laura Sarabia, director of Dapre, and Carmen Caballero, head of ProColombia.
Petro will depart for Paris on the night of July 23, with plans to be present for the opening. This event will feature a six-kilometer parade along the Seine River, which is considered the heart of the city, allowing attendees to enjoy the festivities from specially built stands. The Olympic Games will span 16 days, featuring competitions in 32 sports, some of which will include Colombian athletes.
More details will follow as the event approaches.
Image and News Source: https://www.infobae.com/colombia/2024/07/22/gustavo-petro-que-dejo-perder-los-panamericanos-de-barranquilla-ahora-ira-a-inauguracion-de-los-juegos-olimpicos/
