Mexico City, Mexico - Mexico's leftist President Claudia Sheinbaum on Thursday accused the right-wing Colombian government of refusing to allow in military rescue experts sent by her country to search for earthquake victims.

According to Sheinbaum, the Mexican team was barred in the wake of Monday's devastating earthquake over a claim that they didn't have the correct certification.

Far-right President Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office a week ago, is facing criticism that he has blocked rescue teams from countries with leftist leadership.

The controversy comes as time runs out to unearth survivors from the 7.4-magnitude earthquake, which left over 260 dead in western Colombia.

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De la Espriella's administration, which denies the accusations, has only accepted support from the US, El Salvador, Ecuador, and Israel – all countries with right-wing governments.

"Colombia requested a certification. They are certified, but now they are asking for another certification," Sheinbaum told reporters, adding that the team was still "ready to leave at any moment."

Mexico has extensive experience in disaster response and sent teams to Venezuela following devastating June 24 earthquakes that left over 6,300 dead.

"The rescue workers from Mexico are incredible, they have worked across the world," Sheinbaum said.