Within the framework of the celebration of the 77th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China, the Chinese ambassador to Panama, Zhang Xiangyan, offered his first official speech this Monday, in which he highlighted the dynamic progress and concrete fruits of bilateral relations between both nations since their establishment.
During his speech, the diplomat emphasized how economic and commercial cooperation has experienced accelerated growth in the first years of diplomatic ties.
According to Xiangyan, bilateral trade has doubled and Chinese investment in the country has multiplied, currently counting on the establishment and operation of around 200 Chinese companies in Panamanian territory.
In the agro-commercial field, the notable positioning of the Panamanian exportable offer in the Asian market stood out.
A significant example, he said, is Panamanian coffee, whose exports to China increased more than eightfold just one year after starting diplomatic relations.
In terms of infrastructure, the ambassador made special reference to the Fourth Bridge over the Panama Canal, a work carried out by Chinese companies.
Xiangyan pointed out that this large-scale project will contribute directly and significantly to improving the urban mobility of more than one million Panamanians who travel this road daily.
Likewise, he highlighted the human and educational dimension of the bilateral agenda. Since the beginning of relations, hundreds of Panamanians from various sectors have traveled to China to take part in professional training programs, while more than 400 students have benefited from scholarships awarded by the Chinese government.
Citing Chinese President Xi Jinping, the diplomat recalled that ‘the key to good relations between nations lies in the friendship between their peoples.’
Under this premise, he reaffirmed the People’s Republic of China’s willingness to continue strengthening strategic cooperation in priority areas such as construction, agriculture, health, science and technology, as well as facilitating access to development for communities.
At the cultural and community level, Xiangyan valued the success of the recent Chinese cultural fair organized at Albrook Mall, which registered a high attendance.
Given this reception, he announced the intention to project more cultural and itinerant activities to the different provinces of the country, with the aim of strengthening ties of friendship and extending a helping hand to communities that require it.
