The 121st anniversary of Panama’s independence was commemorated with a ceremony held at Panora Shopping Mall, attended by numerous ambassadors and guests.
The event, hosted by Francisco Navarro, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Panama, welcomed the Director General for Latin American Bilateral Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yaprak Balkan, along with a significant number of diplomats and invitees.
A STRATEGIC CROSSROADS
In his address, Francisco Navarro emphasized Panama’s unique position as a crossroads between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, highlighting its critical role in global trade. “Panama can be defined as a crossroads. The multicultural essence of the festival we organize every January enables us to celebrate this uniqueness,” he remarked.
Navarro also announced that the upcoming festival, set to begin on January 30, is expected to attract visitors from various countries, including Türkiye. He added that the festival would highlight Panama’s cultural diversity, particularly in music, gastronomy, and the arts.
ENHANCED BILATERAL RELATIONS
Ambassador Yaprak Balkan underscored Panama’s importance as a valued partner for Türkiye, noting the deepening of diplomatic ties since 1950. She also highlighted the significant growth in bilateral trade, which surpassed last year’s figures, reaching $445 million in the first nine months of 2024.
The ceremony also featured a photography exhibition showcasing Panama’s cultural heritage, which will remain on display at Panora Shopping Mall’s Piri Reis Area for one week.
