Panama and Brazil, represented by their leaders, José Raúl Mulino and Luiz Inácio 'Lula' da Silva, respectively, have ushered in a novel stage in bilateral relations following an investment facilitation agreement aimed at boosting the flow of trade and capital between the two countries.
'We have consolidated a very important relationship as politicians, as friends, which today translates into the beginning of a bilateral cooperation mechanism between Panama and Brazil,' highlighted President Mulino, prior to bestowing upon his Brazilian counterpart the Manuel Amador Guerrero decoration in the Collar degree.
Mulino added that it was agreed that the technical teams of both nations, in fiscal, maritime, tourism, and other matters, would foster greater closeness through this mechanism, which will be faster and more efficient in the commercial relationship with Brazil, focusing on creating a bridge of connection to Brazil and to Mercosur.
He also highlighted the decoration of the South American leader, the highest national distinction, based on actions undertaken by the ruler to promote an active and solidary foreign policy, oriented towards dialogue among nations, regional cooperation, and Latin American integration.
In turn, the Brazilian president thanked the distinction and reaffirmed before the national and international press that the dynamics of the relations between the two nations demonstrate a commitment to deepening economic ties and cooperation.
He emphasized that Panama is Brazil's main trading partner in Central America, with figures for 2025 indicating a 78% growth in bilateral trade.
'We can reach much higher levels, we are willing to import more Panamanian products,' he announced.
He highlighted the progress in the negotiations of the preferential tariff agreement to support Panama's accession as an Associated State of Mercosur, the signing of cooperation instruments in tourism and port management, and the updating of our air services agreement to provide greater legal certainty to cargo transport.
Lula da Silva reaffirmed his nation's stance in fully supporting Panama's sovereignty over the Canal and announced that he has presented to the National Congress of Brazil the proposal for formal accession to the Canal Neutrality Protocol.
After his visit to Panama and participation in the Latin America and the Caribbean International Forum 2026, he concluded that meetings like this must continue to strengthen the coordination of Latin America and the Caribbean.
'I leave with the renewed certainty that Latin America and the Caribbean are capable of building an autonomous project of international integration,' he concluded.
