President José Raúl Mulino hosted a private meeting with British businessman Peter Phillips at the presidential palace on Thursday, February 12. Phillips, the nephew of King Charles III, visited Panama to discuss infrastructure and economic development.
The meeting took place in the president’s private office within the Palacio de las Garzas. Official statements noted the visit focused on Panama’s progress and potential investment opportunities. Phillips is the only son of Princess Anne and the eldest grandchild of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Royal Perspective on Panama’s Growth
Following his discussion with President Mulino, Peter Phillips commented on the nation’s trajectory. He specifically highlighted the scale and ambition of recent public works projects seen during his trip.
“I highlighted the great infrastructure works and the development achieved by the country,” Phillips said. [Translated from Spanish]
The presidential administration arranged a full tour of the historic palace for the royal visitor. Guiding the tour was the president’s daughter, Verónica Mulino. She showed Phillips several significant rooms including the Los Tamarindos Hall and the Yellow Salon, spaces often used for diplomatic ceremonies.
Phillips also held a separate meeting with Minister of the Presidency juan carlos orillac. That conversation likely covered details of Panama’s strategic planning and governance. Orillac’s portfolio includes coordinating major national projects and international events.
A Private Visit With Public Significance
This encounter represents a notable moment of informal diplomacy. While Phillips holds no official diplomatic role, his royal status and business background create a unique channel for dialogue. His visit underscores continued international interest in Panama’s economic landscape.
Analysts suggest such meetings can pave the way for softer engagements between nations. They often precede more formal trade or cultural discussions. The government’s decision to publicize the event signals a desire to showcase Panama’s global connections.
President Mulino’s team provided photographs of the cordial meeting. Both men appeared in business attire, seated before a Panamanian flag. The imagery projects an atmosphere of serious but friendly exchange.
No specific business deals or policy announcements emerged from the visit. Its primary outcome appears to be relationship building. For Panama, hosting a member of the British royal family reinforces its image as a stable partner for international engagement.
The palace tour itself served a diplomatic purpose. Exposing a foreign dignitary to Panama’s historical seats of power blends culture with politics. It is a traditional method of fostering goodwill and understanding between nations.
Panama continues to position itself as a hub for commerce and infrastructure development in the Americas. High-profile visits from figures like Peter Phillips contribute to that narrative on the world stage. They keep the country in conversations far beyond its borders.