"Colombia facing the opportunity to transform its economy with natural gas and affordable energy."

Colombia is at a crucial crossroads on its path toward sustainable economic growth and effective industrialization. As the world faces economic and energy challenges, the country has a priceless opportunity to transform its "energy heart" into a development engine. This potential lies in its vast reserves of natural gas, the exploitation of which could radically change the country's economic dynamics and improve the quality of life for millions of Colombians. The history of Mexico's industrialization can serve as a lesson for Colombia. In recent decades, Mexico has managed to position itself as a strategic partner for the United States, leveraging its enormous workforce, modernizing its institutions, and gaining preferential access to international markets, all backed by an affordable and abundant energy supply. This combination has allowed Mexico to increase its exports and attract investments, becoming a model to follow in the region. Colombia, for its part, has 17 million underemployed workers, an alarming figure that reflects untapped human potential. However, the country urgently needs to improve its institutional environment to attract substantial investments that can boost the economy. The current conditions present a tough path, but not an unviable one. With the right approach, Mexico's successes can be replicated. Gas storage in the Magdalena Medio region represents an invaluable opportunity for Colombia. It is estimated that the gas reserve in this area amounts to 20 trillion cubic feet, which could provide energy to 11 million families, especially on the Caribbean coast. However, the lack of action in extracting this resource, due to environmental concerns and opposition to hydraulic fracturing, could lead the country to squander this wealth. The decisions made today will influence Colombia's economic future. The cost of energy in Colombia is notably higher than in Mexico, which limits the competitiveness of the local industry. Current prices, hovering around $68 per kilowatt-hour, are the result of a complicated process of environmental permits and social issues that hinder the development of energy projects. This situation affects not only businesses but also families facing high utility costs. The current government, led by President Gustavo Petro, has shown resistance to gas exploitation through techniques that have proven effective in other countries. This stance could result in an economic stagnation that exacerbates the country's difficulties. It is essential for the government to reassess its strategy and consider gas extraction as a viable path for economic and social development. In addition to energy, transportation plays a crucial role in competitiveness. Access to markets is vital, and fiscal policies that tax diesel and gasoline further complicate this situation. Reducing these taxes would not only benefit the industry but also facilitate the export of agricultural and manufactured products, thus increasing the country's tax revenues. The development of transportation infrastructure, such as the La Dorada-Ciénaga multimodal train, can offer a favorable solution, but it must be accompanied by policies that promote competitiveness. The combination of accessible transportation and affordable energy could make Colombia an attractive destination for companies looking to expand their operations. In conclusion, Colombia's "energy heart" has the potential to be a significant driver of economic development. It is imperative that the country adopts a proactive approach, leveraging its natural resources and workforce. Attracting investments and developing a favorable environment for industry is not just an option; it is an urgent necessity. Mexico's history offers an inspiring model, and Colombia has the opportunity to write its own success narrative. The future does not wait, and it is time to act to ensure a prosperous tomorrow for all Colombians.