Panamanian president sees huge potential in China ties

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Panama's President Juan Carlos Varela delivered a ten-minute speech at China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, a think tank in Beijing, on Saturday.

Varela first reviewed his political career serving as vice president of Panama from 2009 and 2014, and president since then. He said one of his major working principles is to serve for the benefit of the people.

Over the years, he said he had implemented a range of policies to help improve people’s livelihood, increase job opportunities, fight against corruption as well as promote the construction of basic facilities in the country.

He also said the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Panama in June was based on mutual trust and respect and was in the interest of the two peoples.

Varela said there is great potential for future development. The president pledged that Panama will actively take part in China's Belt and Road Initiative and will play its full role as one of the most important transportation hubs in the world. He noted that every year, China has over 1,000 ships passing through the 77-kilometer Panama Canal, making it the world's second largest user of the canal.

The president also highlighted the importance of safeguarding regional peace and stability, saying he has personally been involved in promoting the normalization of US-Cuba relations and the stability of Venezuela.

In the afternoon, President Varela is due to be awarded an honorary doctorate by Renmin University of China where he will deliver another speech on bilateral relations.

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