The Government of Colombia, through the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism announces its decision to terminate its contract with Burson-Marsteller. This firm is currently in charge of handling public relations for Colombia in the United States, regarding the approval of the Free Trade Agreement (Tratado de Libre Comercio - TLC) and the Plan Colombia.

In the light of the claims made by American union representatives, the President of Burson-Marsteller, Mr. Mark Penn, declared he "regretted" his meeting with Ambassador Carolina Barco on March 31. The Government considers this is disrespectful towards the people of Colombia and unacceptable.

The firm had been hired by the Embassy of Colombia in United States in March last year for the quality of their services in public relations and extensive experience.

The Government of Colombia shall continue its efforts to inform the United States of the improvements it has achieved in financial, social and security issues, among others, in its quest to obtain a favorable vote for the TLC as to benefit all involved.

Bogotá, April 4 2008