Paris - (AFP) - Colombia is in negotiations to buy 16 Rafale fighter jets from the French manufacturer Dassault, the presidency of the South American country announced Wednesday, as part of its efforts to replace its Israeli Kfir aircraft.

The presidency said in a statement that the South American country "pre-selected the offer of the French government to sell 16 Rafale aircraft," after reviewing the Swedish Gripen and the American F-16.

"There are no contracts signed, it is a preliminary negotiation" on an offer estimated at 15 billion pesos (about $3 million), she added.

The presidency stated that the Rafale aircraft represent "the best option for the country in terms of price, efficiency and operability."

Before assuming power in August, leftist President Gustavo Petro opposed the purchase of new fighter jets.

The presidency confirmed Wednesday that the planes would not be funded by a major tax reform.

The reform, approved by the Colombian Senate last month, seeks to raise taxes on the wealthy and the oil sector.

The presidency said that the cost of the planes would be paid "after five years, with the aim of not sacrificing social spending."