Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are currently on a visit to Colombia, engaging in discussions about artificial intelligence and social media's impact on society. The couple, who relocated to California after stepping back from royal duties in January 2020, arrived in the South American nation on August 17, 2023, at the invitation of Vice President Francia Marquez.
During a panel at EAN University in Bogota on August 16, 2023, Prince Harry expressed his apprehensions about AI and social media. He stated, "AI is scary and I think a lot of people are scared and uncertain." The prince, who is sixth in line to the British throne, also highlighted concerns about the divisive nature of social media platforms.
The royal couple's visit to Colombia includes various engagements. They toured a local school, interacting with students and observing a traditional Colombian dance performance. Vice President Marquez, the country's first Afro-Colombian vice president, joined them in these activities, showcasing Colombia's rich cultural heritage.
Colombia, known for its biodiversity, is home to over 1,800 bird species, more than any other country. This natural wealth is complemented by cultural treasures such as the Colombian coffee region, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The country's diverse landscape includes coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, making it unique in South America.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, through their Archewell Foundation established in 2020, collaborate with charitable organizations worldwide. Their visit to Colombia aligns with this mission, addressing global issues such as cyberbullying and discrimination.
Meghan Markle, a former American actress, and Prince Harry are expected to attend the Petronio Alvarez festival in Cali over the weekend of August 19-20, 2023. This event is one of the largest Afro-Latin American cultural celebrations, highlighting Colombia's diverse cultural tapestry.
Vice President Marquez expressed gratitude for the royal couple's visit, stating, "Thank you for visiting Colombia, for being here, and for your willingness to come to share, and also to build links to work on problems that affect humanity."
As Colombia continues to showcase its cultural and natural wonders, including being the world's leading producer of emeralds, the visit of Prince Harry and Meghan brings attention to both the country's rich heritage and pressing global issues.