Panama and Paraguay Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation in Trade Security and Culture

The governments of Panama and Paraguay reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in key areas such as trade, security, agriculture and culture, during an official meeting between their foreign ministers.  The meeting took place during the visit of Panamanian Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha to Paraguay, where he and his counterpart highlighted the historical ties of friendship and reviewed the common agenda between the two nations. 

Both countries agreed on the need to strengthen technical cooperation in the agricultural and livestock sectors, highlighting the complementarity between the economies: Paraguay as an agricultural production powerhouse and Panama as a regional logistics platform.  They also highlighted the progress in bilateral trade and the importance of facilitating market access, diversifying exports, and promoting reciprocal investments.  They highlighted Paraguay’s participation in Expocomer 2026 and Panama’s strategic role as a hub for international trade.

Panama Moves Towards Mercosur

One of the highlights was Paraguay’s support for the process by which Panama acquires the status of Associate State of Mercosur.  This progress will allow Panama to integrate more actively into the regional bloc and facilitate its participation in trade spaces, thus strengthening its international integration.

Cooperation in Security and the Fight Against Crime

In terms of security, both countries reiterated their commitment to combating transnational organized crime, including drug trafficking and money laundering.  They agreed to strengthen the exchange of intelligence information, training and technical assistance, with the aim of facing common threats in a coordinated manner.

Culture, Education and Connectivity

In the cultural sphere, Panama will share experiences in creative economy and cultural tourism, aligned with UNESCO standards, with a view to strengthening heritage and economic development.  It was also agreed to promote academic exchange programs between diplomatic academies of both countries, focused on the training of officials and the development of economic and digital diplomacy.  Furthermore, they highlighted air connectivity as a pillar for strengthening tourism and trade links.

Regional and Multilateral Support

Paraguay expressed its support for Panama as the host of the 56th General Assembly of the Organization of American States in 2026, an event that will coincide with the commemoration of the Bicentennial of the Amphictyonic Congress of 1826.  Both countries reiterated their intention to continue consolidating a relationship based on cooperation, sustainable development and regional integration, with a view to generating greater economic opportunities and strengthening stability in the region.