The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrived in Colombia amid much anticipation, but their first encounter with Vice President Francia Márquez was anything but warm. While the official greeting was polite, there was a palpable tension that suggested a less-than-enthusiastic reception from the country’s first Black female vice president. The initial excitement surrounding the royal couple’s visit, which had been announced with much fanfare just weeks prior, seemed to dissipate, replaced by a sense of unease.
Rumors of a potential diplomatic faux pas began circulating among Colombian media and social circles, fueling speculation about the true nature of the reception awaiting the Duke and Duchess. Upon arriving at the vice president’s residence, Meghan, dressed in a navy Veronica Beard suit and black Manolo Blahnik heels, and Prince Harry, in a dark blue suit and bright blue dress shirt, were greeted by Márquez and her husband, Rafael Yañez Pinzón.
The initial exchange was polite, but Márquez's demeanor appeared reserved, her smile strained. While the customary coffee, tea, and pandebono were served, the atmosphere remained stiff. Although Márquez acknowledged the couple’s work in promoting mental health and safer digital environments, her enthusiasm seemed lacking compared to her earlier statements announcing their visit.
Sources close to the vice president suggest that the cool reception might be due to a perceived lack of genuine commitment from the couple to the issues they champion. Some critics argue that the Duke and Duchess’s focus on these issues appears more performative than substantive—a calculated move to maintain their public image rather than a deep-seated dedication to social change. Others speculate that Márquez may be wary of the royal couple’s involvement in Colombian affairs, particularly given their recent departure from royal duties and relocation to the United States. Some view their presence as an intrusion into Colombian politics, a thinly veiled attempt to leverage their global platform for personal gain rather than genuine support for the country’s social and political landscape.
The tension was further amplified by their choice of attire. Meghan’s tailored suit, while elegant, was seen by some as a symbol of Western corporate power, starkly contrasting with the traditional Colombian attire worn by Márquez. This disparity in their sartorial choices underscored the perceived cultural divide between the royal couple and the vice president, fueling a sense of disconnect.
Despite the frosty start, the Duke and Duchess continued their itinerary, participating in an insightful session at a school and a summit focused on creating a safer digital landscape. However, the initial encounter with Vice President Márquez cast a shadow over the visit, raising questions about the true nature of their reception in Colombia. Known for its vibrant culture and warm hospitality, the country’s surprising chill from its highest-ranking female official has added an unexpected layer of intrigue to their South American journey.
The success of the visit will hinge on the couple’s ability to bridge the perceived gap between their stated intentions and their actions, demonstrating a genuine commitment to the issues they champion and navigating Colombia’s delicate political landscape with sensitivity and respect. The initial frosty reception serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in international relations, particularly when dealing with globally influential figures.
