Opening the Door to Cheaper Medicines: Indian Ambassador Bids Farewell to Panama
Upon completing his diplomatic mission, Sumit Seth announced efforts with health authorities to introduce Indian pharmaceutical companies that would reduce costs and increase competition in the country.
To facilitate the entry of more Indian pharmaceutical companies into the local market, Indian diplomacy has held intensive talks with the Ministry of Health (Minsa) and the Social Insurance Fund (CSS), reported the Ambassador of the Republic of India, Sumit Seth, prior to the end of his diplomatic mission in the country. He explained that the central objective of this initiative is to generate greater commercial competition that will allow lower drug prices in Panama, while ensuring the highest international quality standards. India’s ambassador to Panama, Sumit Seth, says that more and more Indian companies see the country as a strategic platform to serve the Latin American market.
“India is the pharmacy of the world, where we produce first-world medicines,” Seth stated, highlighting his nation’s potential to alleviate public health costs in Panama.
Panama as the Business Hub Between India and Latin America
Beyond health, the ambassador highlighted that his administration strengthened the bilateral strategic alliance, setting in motion a robust agenda focused on five key pillars: constant trade and investment, direct links between companies, accessible pharmaceutical products, greater logistical connectivity, and capacity building through scholarships and technical training. Furthermore, Dr. Seth highlighted that the groundwork is being laid for a future India-Latin America Business Forum. Thanks to its privileged geographic location and regional connectivity, Panama is emerging as the ideal hub to connect Asian corporations with trading partners across the continent, the diplomat noted.
A ‘See You Later’
At a reception held to mark the conclusion of his diplomatic mission in Panama, prominent public figures, members of the Indian community, and representatives of civil organizations were in attendance. Representing President José Raúl Mulino and Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha, the reception was officially attended by Acting Foreign Minister Carlos Guevara Mann. Panamanian authorities expressed their gratitude for Seth’s contribution to promoting trade, technology, tourism, and entrepreneurship. The diplomat, in turn, thanked them for the support he received during his tenure, assuring them that this moment did not represent a final goodbye, but rather a “see you later” for two nations that will continue building bridges of shared development.
