Colombia and Chile announce key government appointments

In Colombia, President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella has appointed jurist Mauricio Gaona as the country’s permanent representative to the United Nations in New York. Gaona, a constitutional expert with advanced degrees from institutions including Harvard and McGill, aims to restore the nation’s international prestige through merit and state ethics. He will work alongside designated Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar to defend Colombian interests and strengthen strategic alliances.

In Chile, President José Antonio Kast has appointed lawyer Emanuel Ibarra Soto as the new Superintendent of the Environment. Ibarra, who holds a Master’s in Environment, Evaluation, Management, and Environmental Law, will officially assume his duties on September 1, 2026. His appointment follows a public management selection process, drawing on his extensive experience within the Superintendency, where he previously served in various legal and leadership roles.