What Progress Did MoS Margherita and Panama’s Minister Discuss in Bilateral Ties?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening bilateral relations between India and Panama.
- Support for Panama's upcoming UNSC Presidency.
- Initiatives to enhance investments and infrastructure.
- Exploration of a pharmaceutical hub in Panama.
- Commitment to combatting terrorism and enhancing cooperation.
New Delhi, July 30 (NationPress) - The Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, convened a meeting with Panama's Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, Carlos Arturo Hoyos, in New Delhi on Wednesday to assess the advancements in their bilateral relations.
During this important discussion, Margherita affirmed India's backing of Panama's upcoming Presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
In a post shared on X, Margherita remarked, "Thrilled to meet Vice Minister Carlos Hoyos of Panama. We reviewed the progress of India-Panama relations and conveyed our best wishes and support for Panama's impending UNSC Presidency."
Hoyos is in India on an official visit aimed at fostering investments, infrastructure initiatives, and investigating the establishment of a pharmaceutical hub in Panama, as stated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Panama.
"Vice Foreign Minister Carlos Hoyos arrived in New Delhi on an official mission to advance investments, infrastructure projects, and examine the potential for a pharmaceutical hub in Panama. He received a warm welcome from Indian officials and the Panamanian ambassador to India," reported Panama's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on X.
"His agenda features meetings with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Commerce, the Indian Institute of Technology, business leaders from the energy and logistics sectors, and the International Solar Alliance, in addition to activities aimed at enhancing both bilateral and multilateral cooperation," it added.
Previously in May, high-ranking politicians and notable figures from Panama attended a reception organized by the Indian Ambassador to Panama, Sumit Seth, for the Indian Parliamentary delegation led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor. At this event, Panama's Foreign Minister, Javier Martinez-Acha Vasquez, addressed the issue of terrorism and pledged full support to India following the tragic April 22 attack in Pahalgam.
"Our journey concluded with an exceptional reception hosted by Ambassador Seth for the diplomatic community and prominent Panamanian figures. The Foreign Minister and his Vice-Minister, Carlos Hoyos, expressed solidarity with India, emphasizing support for our battle against terrorism and a commitment to strengthening cooperation between our nations," Tharoor shared on X.
As delegates, diplomats, and others captured moments with the visiting delegation, Tharoor expressed that it was "wonderful to meet and interact" with a diverse segment of the diplomatic community in Panama during the Ambassador's reception.
During their visit, the Indian Parliamentary delegation also had an audience with Panama's President, Jose Raul Mulino, at the Presidential Palace in Panama City. In this meeting, President Mulino reiterated Panama's support for India and its stance against terrorism.
IANS
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