Understanding Colombia–Ukraine relations: modern developments and a global perspective

Abstract

This study analyses the evolution and current dynamics of bilateral relations between Colombia and Ukraine. Since Ukraine gained independence in 1991, the relations existing between the parties still focus on those areas of cooperation to be partially developed when the country was a part of the Soviet Union. Taking into account institutional cooperation established between the states in recent years, this research outlines the promising collaboration in the sectors of their common interest and its potential impact on the regional relations in Europe and Latin America, as well as on the global system of international interactions as a whole. The authors used comprehensive methodology including both general and specific scientific research methods. Historical analysis allowed determining the dynamics of relations between Colombia and Ukraine in retrospect. Comparative analysis and synthesis helped to identify priority areas of the parties’ relations that are confirmed by the available quantitative and qualitative data given by the state institutions and the media. System analysis allowed determining the essence of relationships existing between the countries and their influence on the regional and global systems of international relations, and the forecasting method helped to contemplate the potential consequences of intensification of these interactions on the world arena. The analysed information proves that Colombia and Ukraine should deepen not only their practical cooperation but also strengthen its regulatory framework, and the article provides relevant recommendations. The parties should intensify cooperation at the global level, as their common position on the international stage could strengthen their role in the world and confirm their status as the important elements of the contemporary international system. Since the essence and development of bilateral relations between Colombia and Ukraine are hardly considered in both Ukrainian and international political science, their analysis and forecasting allow forming a new scientific concept to explore interactions between these states on the international arena that would take into consideration their regional and global significance, as well as determine progressive areas of cooperation in view of its intensity nowadays.