Panama’s National Assembly has taken a significant step in international relations by forming a multiparty interparliamentary friendship group with Taiwan’s legislature. This initiative is set to create a new avenue for parliamentary exchanges and foster bilateral cooperation between the two nations. Notably, the group comprises 45 of the 71 lawmakers in Panama’s assembly, accounting for more than 60% of its members. Key figures in this development include National Assembly President Shirley Castañedas and Vice Presidents Manuel Cohen and Manuel Cheng.
Taiwan has warmly received the establishment of this group, expressing optimism about enhancing parliamentary diplomacy. The initiative is seen as a platform to expand cooperation based on shared principles such as democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights. This move is particularly significant given that Panama severed formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan in June 2017, marking a notable shift in the relationship dynamics between the two sides.
The formation of this parliamentary group follows a series of visits to Taiwan by more than 20 Panamanian lawmakers over the past six months. These interactions have laid the groundwork for the new platform, which is expected to promote greater dialogue and collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The initiative also aims to strengthen people-to-people connections, fostering a deeper understanding and partnership between Panama and Taiwan.
This development underscores a renewed effort to bridge the gap between the two nations, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations. The creation of the friendship group signals a commitment to building a constructive and cooperative relationship that benefits both sides. As the platform begins its work, it is poised to play a crucial role in facilitating meaningful exchanges and reinforcing the values shared by the legislative bodies of Panama and Taiwan.