Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) said via social media that he was deeply impressed by a visiting Panamanian delegation, which left Taiwan Friday. This was the second cross-party delegation from Panama to visit Taiwan, and Lin made special note of their emphasis on friendliness with the hope that relations could continue to grow and strengthen.

The delegation was led by José A. Pérez Barboni, who also serves as executive secretary of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China. The other members of the delegation came from five different political parties and independent groups, which Lin noted demonstrates the Panamanian National Assembly's high level of attention towards Taiwan. Delegation members expressed their hope for opportunities for common development and prosperity through parliamentary diplomacy. Lin quoted Pérez as saying that the countries should continue deepening ties because “old friends are always better than new.”

Lin said that in the face of recent dramatic changes to global geopolitics, Taiwan and Panama should cooperate for regional and global peace and stability from their positions on either side of the Pacific. Taiwan is a trusted partner for global democracies looking to diversify risks and strengthen economic security and resilience. Lin said that industry cooperation between Taiwan and Panama will help to build a more stable non-red supply chain.

Although Taiwan and Panama terminated official diplomatic relations in 2017, bilateral and economic trade exchanges have remained close. Lin emphasized that the Foreign Ministry was willing to adopt a pragmatic attitude to initiate bilateral collaboration, extending the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project in Latin America to friends like Panama to create opportunities for mutual benefit. 

Lin sincerely welcomed the Panamanian assembly members to continue exchanges, with the hope that this start will lay the groundwork for both sides to build a solid foundation for broader future cooperation.