Prince Harry and Meghan Markle being used as 'political pawns' on Colombia trip
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set begin their four-day visit to Colombia on Thursday, August 15.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been dubbed potential "political pawns" ahead of their Colombia trip next week.
The couple will travel to the crime-ravaged South American country on Thursday, with them set to visit Bogota, Cartagena and Cali.
Harry, who will celebrate his 40th birthday next month, and Meghan, 43, are arriving following invitation from the Colombian vice president Francia Marquez.
After news of their upcoming visit spread, Francia stated that the couple will have the "exceptional opportunity to engage with elders, youth and women who embody the aspirations and voices of Colombians... and illuminate Colombia's role as a beacon of culture and innovation."
According to MailOnline, many Colombians have viewed the invitation to have Meghan and Harry - who have been referred to as a "glamorous couple" - visit as a "cynical attempt by a failing Left-wing government to divert attention from a series of scandals that have engulfed the regime".
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
As per the publication, a prominent lawyer from Bogota has since told the Mail on Sunday: "I'm sure Meghan and Harry mean well, but everyone here is talking about how obviously they are being manipulated.
"Of course, their star-power will be used to bring attention to poor people and certain areas of culture in Colombia... but the reality is the Colombian government has been drowning in scandal since it came in two years ago.
"They need something to appease people at home and make them look good abroad."
Vice President Marquez's office have remained tight-lipped on the visit, but have revealed that Meghan and Harry are due to travel on August 15.
Don't miss...
Prince Harry and Meghan's visit to Vancouver cost £34k in police overtime [DETAILS]
Meghan and Harry 'tensions' erupt as 'Duke struggles with one thing' - expert [EXPERT]
Meghan Markle blasted over 'risky' move as Duchess urged to do one thing [EXCLUSIVE]
Following Harry's recent comments about his security fears when visiting the UK, the couple's security plans for their visit to Colombia remain unknown.
MailOnline have reported that the government, police nor the Colombian military have not discussed the arrangements, but a source told the publication that the security costs will be picked up by the Colombian taxpayer - which has led to an uproar.
The source said: "They will be with the vice president and she has a lot of security because there have been assassination attempts on her life. But people are grumbling about why the Colombian taxpayer should pick up what will be huge security costs for what is essentially a public relations exercise for the Sussexes and for a government which desperately needs to deflect away from its failures."
