Vientiane: President Thongloun Sisoulith of the Lao PDR on August 19, 2026, sent a message of condolence to Mr. Abelardo Gabriele de la Espriella, President of Colombia, following a devastating earthquake that struck western Colombia on August 10. According to Lao News Agency, President Thongloun expressed deep sadness over the loss of life, injuries, and extensive damage to infrastructure and property caused by the disaster. On behalf of the Government and people of the Lao PDR, and in his own name, he conveyed deepest condolences and sympathy to the Colombian Government and people, particularly the families of those affected. He expressed confidence that, under the leadership of President de la Espriella, and with the efforts of the Colombian Government and people and support from the international community, the country would overcome the difficult situation and restore normal livelihoods in affected areas. On the same day, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane als o sent a condolence message to Colombian Foreign Minister Laura Sarabia.