President Ma Ying-jeou and his delegation have arrived in Panama.
This is President Ma’s fourth visit to the Central American country. He is in Panama to attend President-elect Juan Carlos Varela’s inauguration. Varela is replacing current President Ricardo Martinelli.
Upon his arrival, President Ma spoke about the friendship between the two countries.
“The Republic of China and Panama have had [diplomatic] relations for more than a century. I hope the trip will further strengthen bilateral ties,” said Ma.
The Republic of China is Taiwan’s official name.
Panamanian President-elect Juan Carlos Varela said he is very proud of President Ma’s handling of relations with China.
While in Panama, President Ma met with members of the overseas Taiwanese community. He spoke about how cross-strait relations have greatly improved since he took office six years ago.