Canada-Panama Relations

Fact Sheet: General country information, political and economic data.

Beginning of Diplomatic Relations

Canada and Panama established diplomatic relations in 1961. From 1961 to 1995, the Canadian Embassy in Costa Rica was responsible for managing Canada’s general relations, and trade and consular programs in Panama. To handle the growing political and economic ties and to promote political, trade and investment relations between Canada and Panama, Canada opened an Embassy in Panama in 1995. Canada and Panama share many common interests on global issues and cooperate widely in international activities.

Key Issues

• Change in Government:
  Martin Torrijos of the Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD) won the May 2, 2004 Presidential elections with 48% of the vote. The Hon. Dan McTeague, Member of Parliament and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, represented Canada at the September 1, 2004 inauguration of President Torrijos.

• Panama Canal:
  Because of its geographic position in the middle of the Americas and because of the Canal, Panama plays an important role in hemispheric and world trade. The Canal and its ports, combined with Panama’s modern commerce, banking, insurance and other services, drive the country’s economy and account for over 75% of GDP.

Trade and Investment

International Trade Canada is responsible for positioning Canada as a world business leader and for promoting Canada as a dynamic place to do business. Visit the International Trade Canada web site for information about services for Canadian companies, non-Canadian companies, business development, and information relating to investment or trade policy.

Indigenous Relations

Learn more about the Aboriginal dimension of Canada’s relations with countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Development Assistance

CIDA supports projects in the Americas and around the world that are eligible for Canadian aid through development cooperation initiatives.

April 200