The Ministry of Foreign Relations of the Republic of Panama categorically rejected on Wednesday “any attempt at interference” in the country's internal affairs by accredited diplomatic missions. The statements were made in response to recent comments regarding a trip taken by some members of the National Assembly. The ministry recalled that the conduct of the country's foreign policy is an exclusive power of the Executive Branch, represented by the President of the Republic, in accordance with the Constitution and national laws. “Panama, as a sovereign state, does not accept conditioning or pressures that seek to influence the legitimate decisions of its authorities, including the actions of the National Assembly, within the framework of the separation of powers that governs our democratic system, even when those decisions are not shared by the National Government,” the communiqué adds. Furthermore, the ministry reaffirmed its respect for all accredited diplomatic missions in the country and highlighted that it expects the same respect towards Panamanian institutions. It reiterated that Panama is committed to continuing to promote international relations based on sovereignty, “mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs.” It is worth noting that recently, President José Raúl Mulino referred to this parliamentary trip and stated that “they did not have his support or approval.” “In light of reports of potential trips by officials from the Legislative Branch to Taiwan, such trips do not have the support or approval of my government,” he wrote on his X account. Manuel Cohen (Democratic Change), Eduardo Gaitán (Coalition Vamos), Ernesto Cedeño, and Betserai Richards from the We Continue faction confirmed on Monday that they will travel to Taiwan to strengthen commercial ties. Through a press release on their social networks, Gaitán explained that his trip, scheduled for November 21-30, is to exchange experiences and explore cooperation in the maritime sector. He also assured that the agenda seeks commercial and investment opportunities that could benefit the country and his district of San Miguelito. Meanwhile, Richards and Cedeño stated that they accepted the visit to enhance opportunities that exist to strengthen democratic values and the commitment to sustainable development.
