In a move to bolster ties, Panama’s National Assembly has initiated a multiparty interparliamentary friendship group with Taiwan’s legislature. This newly formed group promises to serve as a platform for enhancing parliamentary exchanges and fostering bilateral cooperation between the two entities. Comprising 45 of the 71 Panamanian lawmakers, the group includes notable figures such as National Assembly President Shirley Castañedas and Vice Presidents Manuel Cohen and Manuel Cheng, representing more than 60% of the assembly.
The establishment of this friendship group has been warmly received by Taiwan, which views it as a significant opportunity to strengthen parliamentary diplomacy. Taiwan emphasizes that this initiative could expand cooperation grounded in shared values, such as democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights. The formation of this group follows a series of visits by over 20 Panamanian lawmakers to Taiwan in the past six months, indicating a growing interest in rekindling ties.
This development is particularly significant given Panama’s decision to sever formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan in June 2017. However, the establishment of the interparliamentary group suggests a renewed focus on dialogue and collaboration, despite the absence of official diplomatic ties. The creation of this platform reflects a mutual interest in exploring areas of common concern and potential cooperation.
Through this new parliamentary framework, both Panama and Taiwan aim to facilitate greater dialogue and cooperation in various areas of mutual interest. The initiative is expected to strengthen people-to-people ties and foster a deeper understanding between the two sides, building bridges beyond the formal limitations of diplomatic relations.