UAE President and VP Congratulate Panama on Independence Day, Celebrate Bilateral Ties

UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan sent congratulations to Panama's President José Raúl Mulino on his country's independence day, signaling continued diplomatic engagement between the two nations. The gesture reflects the UAE's broader strategy of maintaining strong ties with Latin American countries as it expands its global influence.

Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who also serves as Dubai's ruler, joined in sending similar congratulatory messages. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE's other Vice President and Presidential Court Chairman, also extended his congratulations to the Panamanian leader.

These diplomatic exchanges matter more than they might seem. Panama controls one of the world's most important shipping routes through the Panama Canal, which handles about 6% of global trade. For the UAE, a major trading hub connecting East and West, maintaining good relations with countries that control key shipping lanes makes economic sense.

The timing is also significant. Panama recently elected Mulino as president in May 2024, and the UAE has been working to strengthen its presence in Latin America through trade agreements and investment partnerships. Countries like Panama offer the UAE access to new markets and shipping routes that complement its position as a global logistics center.

For Panama, closer ties with the UAE could mean increased investment in infrastructure projects and access to Middle Eastern markets. The UAE has a track record of investing in port facilities and logistics infrastructure worldwide, which could benefit Panama's economy beyond just the canal operations.