Martinelli upbeat at Paris conference

LATIN AMERICA is "a land of opportunity" said President Ricardo Martinelli at the closing session of the International Economic Forum of Latin America and the Caribbean in Paris, May 31.

He urged other leaders in the region to visit Europe to promote their countries and not miss opportunities by focusing on domestic markets.

Before an audience of ministers from various countries in Latin America, he said that Latinos have "lost many opportunities for years" but now "we have ceased to be spectators and are actors."
He said with its pace of growth, the region will not only raise the standard of living of its citizens and reduce inequalities, but also constitutes a vector of growth for Europe.
He said that, in the case of Panama, the gross domestic product (GDP) will continue to grow "over 10 percent" this year and noted that the country has "a very healthy and strong investment plan."
He said "Panama is not just a canal" and said that financial services and tourism are also important facets of the economy.