On March 26, former President of Colombia Álvaro Uribe began his two-day visit to CHDS with a roundtable discussion on the subject of Colombia during and after his administration. CHDS Director Richard Downie moderated the discussion, which was attended by members of the faculty, as well as other specialists in Latin American policy. Dr. Downie presented President Uribe, remarking on the significant changes that had transformed Colombia in the eight years of his administration.

In his introductory remarks President Uribe spoke of the importance of the triangle of investment, security, and social cohesiveness that made such a dramatic change possible, stressing especially the alliance between the armed forces and the community. His remarks were followed by a lively dialogue, fostered by questions raised by the attendees.