The contribution of the Chinese community to the national development, trade, cultural life, and international projection of the country is not a separate chapter, but part of the same book. The Republic recognizes that legacy as inseparable from our identity as an open, plural, and deeply multicultural nation.
Panamá is offering 'a new suitable space to honor and preserve the historical and cultural legacy of the Chinese-Panamanian community' after the demolition of a monument located in the area of the Bridge of the Americas, an episode that left annoyance, pain, and a sense of grievance that was felt beyond a single community.
During the night and under the order of the Mayor of Arraiján, Stefany Peñalba, the demolition of the monument that commemorates the more than 175 years of the presence of the Chinese community in Panamá was carried out. In response to what happened, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through a communiqué, reiterated its willingness to accompany and promote, together with national authorities and the Chinese-Panamanian community itself, the identification of a new dignified place where the historical and cultural legacy of China in Panamá can be honored and preserved, as its history deserves.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the State recognizes the impact caused and expressed its respect and consideration for the Chinese-Panamanian community, recalling that its presence, its work, and its contribution have been a fundamental part of the construction of Panamá for more than 170 years.
From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was accepted that an administrative action, although dressed in technical arguments, ended up provoking misunderstanding and feelings of grievance towards a community that is an integral part of the social, economic, and fabric of the country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicated that 'when it comes to symbols that represent the collective memory of the peoples, the State is obliged to act with historical sensitivity, dialogue, and respect'.
The pronouncement also put into words what many Panamanians feel: Panamá cannot be understood without the Chinese community. Because the identity of a country does not move without consequences.
