On May 26, 2026 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Panamanian Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez in New York when presiding over the U.N. Security Council High-Level Meeting.

Wang Yi stated that China and Panama enjoy a long history of exchanges. In the 19th century, large numbers of Chinese laborers traveled to Panama to build railways and dig the Panama Canal, contributing to Panama’s economic and social development. Nearly nine years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Panama, bilateral relations have generally progressed smoothly, with trade volume doubling compared to the pre-establishment period, delivering tangible benefits to the Panamanian people. Facts fully prove that the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Panama serves the long-term interests of both countries and represents the shared aspiration and irresistible trend of the times. Adherence to the one-China principle is the political foundation of the establishment of the bilateral diplomatic ties. China appreciates that Panamanian leaders have repeatedly reaffirmed their commitment to the one-China principle and denied Taiwan any room for activities. Chinese enterprises have operated in Panama for years, making important contributions to Panama’s economic growth and people’s well-being. It is hoped that Panama will earnestly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises. China has always maintained that bilateral relations do not target any third party nor should they be subject to third-party interference. China stands ready to work with Panama to uphold the original aspiration of establishing diplomatic relations, deepen practical cooperation, fend off external disruptions, and promote the healthy and stable development of bilateral ties.

Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez said that China is an important force safeguarding multilateralism, and Panama is also committed to effective multilateralism. Panama highly values relations with China, fully recognizes the importance and sensitivity of the Taiwan question, and will unswervingly pursue the one-China policy and not allow Taiwan to set up institutions in Panama. The Panamanian people remember the contributions made by the Chinese people to the construction of Panama’s railways and the Canal in early years. Panama stands ready to work with China to look to the future, resolve differences through constructive dialogue on the basis of mutual respect, build solid mutual trust, and turn a new page in Panama-China relations.