Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation this Thursday. Their meeting at Panama’s Presidential Palace focused on sharing construction expertise and boosting commercial ties, officials from both nations confirmed.
The discussions centered on Jamaica’s interest in Panama’s advanced construction standards. Prime Minister Holness specifically admired Panama’s development of major infrastructure projects. He aims to apply similar procedures to rebuild critical infrastructure in Jamaica damaged by Hurricane Melissa.
President Mulino pledged full support from Panama’s government and private sector. He confirmed that national authorities and the Panamanian Chamber of Construction (CAPAC) would collaborate with Jamaican officials.
“The Panamanian state and the private sector are ready to share our experience and knowledge,” Mulino stated. [Translated from Spanish]
This technical cooperation forms the first concrete step from the leaders’ talks. Jamaica seeks proven methods as it launches a significant national reconstruction effort. Panama’s experience with complex projects like the Panama Canal expansion provides a valuable model.
Shared History and Future Collaboration
Both leaders highlighted the deep historical and cultural connections between their countries. They noted that a significant portion of Panama’s population has Jamaican roots. This foundation creates a natural platform for enhanced partnership, they argued.
Beyond construction, the talks covered trade and education. Mulino and Holness agreed to explore a student exchange program. They also committed to fostering greater commercial links between their nations.
Prime Minister Holness expressed particular admiration for Panama’s iconic mega-projects. His visit occurred during the International Economic Forum 2026, organized by the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF). The forum provided the backdrop for these bilateral discussions.
“We share similar geopolitical perspectives and strong bonds,” Holness said, acknowledging the parallel interests of both nations. [Translated from Spanish]
Sports and Economic Synergy
President Mulino praised Jamaica’s world-renowned athletic training system. He expressed interest in the country’s method for developing elite track and field stars. This mutual admiration in sports complements the practical economic agreements.
The leaders have directed their respective administrations to advance the discussed initiatives. Instructions were issued to flesh out the details on student exchanges and trade facilitation. This move signals an intent to translate dialogue into actionable policy.
Panama’s role as a regional hub for engineering and logistics continues to attract international attention. The Government of Panama is positioning the country as an expert partner for other nations in rica latina facing large-scale infrastructure challenges.
This new cooperation framework could accelerate Jamaica’s recovery timeline. It also opens potential markets for Panamanian engineering firms and consultants. The partnership reflects a broader trend of south-south collaboration, where countries within the region leverage each other’s specialized strengths.
Final agreements and detailed work plans are expected in the coming months. Both governments will now work through diplomatic and trade channels to formalize the shared commitments made during the official visit.