The Rector of the University of Panama, Dr. Eduardo Flores Castro, stated today that the demolition of the monument erected to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Chinese presence in Panama, built 21 years ago, is a condemnable act that reflects a grave ignorance of our history and culture. He indicated that Panama is a nation forged by diversity. Therefore, it is imperative that the Chinese community be allowed to rebuild this monument as an act of historical justice and respect for their invaluable contribution to the country, concluded the Rector of the University of Panama. This irrational action by the mayor of Arraiján was severely questioned by the President of the Republic, José Raúl Mulino. Former President Ernesto Pérez Balladares also joined the criticisms. The Rector of the University of Panama described the demolition of the community monument as condemnable, stating that there was no justification for such barbarism. This multicultural richness cannot and should not be ignored or erased. «Recognizing, respecting, and preserving these contributions is essential for the development of a just and inclusive nation. Panamanians are the result of the convergence of our original American peoples, Spaniards, Afro-descendants, Chinese, Indo-Caribbeans, Italians, Europeans, and Asians in general».
