In a significant move to bolster relations, Panama’s National Assembly has launched a multiparty interparliamentary friendship group with Taiwan’s legislature. This initiative aims to create a platform for enhanced parliamentary exchanges and bilateral cooperation between the two regions. The group is notably comprised of 45 of Panama’s 71 lawmakers, accounting for over 60% of the assembly, and includes key figures such as National Assembly President Shirley Castañedas and Vice Presidents Manuel Cohen and Manuel Cheng.
Taiwan has expressed a warm welcome towards this development, viewing it as an opportunity to strengthen parliamentary diplomacy and deepen cooperation rooted in common values like democracy, freedom, and human rights. The formation of this group follows the visits of more than 20 Panamanian lawmakers to Taiwan over the past six months, highlighting the growing interest in fostering closer ties despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations since Panama’s decision to switch recognition to China in June 2017.
The establishment of this parliamentary platform marks an important step in facilitating dialogue and cooperation in areas of mutual interest. It is expected to enhance people-to-people connections and encourage collaboration on various fronts, potentially benefiting both sides. The group serves as a bridge to promote understanding and shared objectives between Panama and Taiwan.
This development underscores the shifting dynamics of international relations in the region, with Panama taking proactive steps to engage with Taiwan through legislative channels. It reflects a strategic approach to maintaining a strong relationship with Taiwan, leveraging parliamentary diplomacy as a means to advance mutual interests and foster a cooperative spirit between the two legislatures.