In a significant diplomatic development, Panama’s National Assembly has formed a multiparty friendship group with Taiwan’s legislature, establishing a new channel for interparliamentary exchanges and cooperation. This initiative includes 45 out of Panama’s 71 lawmakers, representing over 60% of the assembly’s composition. Notable members include National Assembly President Shirley Castañedas, along with Vice Presidents Manuel Cohen and Manuel Cheng.
Taiwan has welcomed this move, highlighting its potential to bolster parliamentary diplomacy and broaden cooperation founded on shared values such as democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights. The creation of this group follows visits by more than 20 Panamanian lawmakers to Taiwan over the past six months, underscoring a renewed interest in strengthening ties despite Panama cutting formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan in June 2017.
This newly established parliamentary platform is set to enhance dialogue and cooperation on mutual interests, facilitating a closer relationship between the two sides. It is also expected to strengthen people-to-people connections, which could pave the way for more substantial bilateral engagement in the future.
The timing of this development is particularly noteworthy given the historical context of Panama’s diplomatic shift away from Taiwan in favor of China. The formation of this friendship group indicates a potential shift in Panama’s approach to international relations, reflecting the complex balance of alliances in the region.