A Diplomat's Diary : In Conversation with Colombian Ambassador to India HE Ms. Mariana Pacheco Montes

Experts from an interview - Ms. Mariana Pacheco Montes

- Seema Dhawan

What was your first impression of India?

That’s a very good question.You know, there is a difference between what you read and hear and what you see and feel. One thing is the perception of what and how the world perceives India and the other thing is the reality. Everyone was telling me India is marvelous but 60 percent of the population is rural. We were under the impression that people in India are narrow minded and backward. But when I came here, I realized they are not backward at all. They are rather very progressive, wise, and technically sound. I visited some villages and saw that the villages are not at all backward. The people in the villages are wiser than those in any European city. It’s just a matter of perception -even for Colombia people have a perception that Colombia is still a country which is very much into drug trafficking but we have been able to overcome the problem. Colombia struck a peace deal with the guerrilla movement and now the economy is thriving.

How do you feel now?

I feel blessed that I have come to India. I hope to be here and complete all 4 years and work to strengthen the relationship between the two countries. So far, I think my team and I are doing a fantastic job.

India has been at the forefront in the global efforts to forge a decisive response to COVID-19 and has assisted several countries with the supply of essential medicines in the global fight against the pandemic. I have seen such generosity amongst Indians not only during the pandemic but also otherwise. India has not only done this for Indians but also for all of humanity. I’m sure Indian vaaccines will overcome not just this but other variants as well.

What differences and similarities do you find between the two countries?