Fighting Corruption in Panama

The United States government stressed that it will continue to use the tools available to help Panama fight corruption, which includes revoking visas, including for elected officials.  After completing a series of meetings with different sectors of the country for two days, the coordinator for Global Anti-Corruption Affairs of the United States Department of State, Richard Nephew, highlighted the commitment that Panama has in the fight against corruption.  “During this visit, I confirmed that corruption is one of the main concerns of Panamanians and how committed Panamanians are to fighting it.  Corruption is theft, it is taking away the opportunity for a better future for all of us”.  The official was in Panama on March 5^th and 6^th.  During his stay he learned “first-hand” the challenges in the fight against corruption faced by different sectors of the country as well as the efforts of civil society, justice institutions and the private sector.  In a statement, the US Embassy reported that during meetings with coordinator Nephew, areas were identified where the United States and Panama can further expand cooperation in the fight against corruption.  “The United States will continue to help Panama fight corruption.  We will continue to use all available tools to ensure accountability, including visa restrictions and revocations of government officials, including elected officials, as well as training and cooperation at the judicial level. “Panama is an important democratic ally in the region, and the United States will continue to support Panama in strengthening the rule of law.”  The statement highlights that “corruption fuels crime, stifles economic growth, increases inequality and destroys faith in government institutions.”