Panama’s Ministry of Culture will lead the reconstruction of a monument commemorating 150 years of Chinese presence in the country. The original structure was demolished last week in Arraij\u00e1n, west of Panama City. Government officials moved quickly to distance the national executive from the demolition and assure China the bilateral relationship remains strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Secretary of Goals Jos\u00e9 Ram\u00f3n Icaza confirmed the directive from President Laurentino Cortizo. He stated the monument will be rebuilt on the exact same site. The decision follows a formal presidential communication ordering its restoration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n“The president has been very clear. The monument will be rebuilt on the same site, as established by the statement issued by the president. Funds and resources will be allocated based on who is responsible. We will have to see which institution will be in charge. The president has instructed the Ministry of Culture, so that will subsequently be managed.” [Translated from Spanish]<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Icaza provided crucial clarification about the land ownership. He explained the property does not belong to the Arraij\u00e1n Mayor’s Office. The site is owned by the Caja de Ahorros (Panama)<\/a>, a national savings bank. The land was under a concession agreement that had already expired according to his information.<\/p>