South-South forums: Alternative or not for Panama

Recently, a local media published an article about possibility that Panama participate as an observer within the economic bloc known as BRICS.

This multilateral group, which they currently comprise Brazil, China, India, Russia and South Africa, It was created at the beginning of this century. Last August, the entry, starting in 2024, of six more countries, among them, was announced Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia and Iran. This will expand the coverage radius of the organization.

The the participation of Panama As an observer, this is nothing new in this type of international forum. This status is maintained within organizations such as the Pacific Alliance.

I had the honor of being the first representative of our country before African Union. In general, This type of participation makes a difference to a nation, but it is important to weigh the benefits and risks it brings. Obviously, there will always be pros and cons within the national context, who could be right or wrong in their approaches.

I am opposed to any decision in this sense being politicized or responding to one ideology or economic or geopolitical interest. The decision must come from an eclectic consensus, which results from a thoughtful analysis of the possible consequences. First of all, it must be emphasized that the role of the observer is not threatening legal integrity of the state.

Let us first consider Panama’s status as a dollarized economy and its relationship as an important trading partner with United States of America.

BRICS seeks to become a geo-economic alternative to the financial power maintained by the US dollar, within the international scenario, a kind of new economic order. Although it is true that it is Panama’s low-profile participation in BRICScould raise suspicion among North American foreign policy strategists, due to the affinity of the countries involved, s China and Russia, Our status as a sovereign nation must not be compromised. Furthermore, it is time to exercise our right to self-determination. Let’s remember the support that was achieved in the 1970s, from the Third World bloc, when we wanted to rebuild the canal belt.

Today, the Channel is ours. It is not about antagonizing any friendly country. It is about achieving a socioeconomic solution that is most favorable to the possibility of improving the quality of life of Panamanians. The opening of new markets is an incentive in itself. Countries that make up BRICSTogether they represent almost 20% of international trade, along with more than 40% of the planet’s population. From this perspective, there could be the opening of new markets and the diversification of Panama’s agro-industrial offer and its promotion as a tourist destination.

Alternatively, this APEC, a conglomerate of countries bordering the Pacific Ocean. Ha in the spotlight for many years, and although China and Russia are member countries, it is also NOW. If you want to be politically correct, APEC is a better choice. Furthermore, his speech remains within the economic sphere and would cause less friction. In both cases, Panama can only have observer status. What should not be negotiated, as part of a possible geo-economic merger, is our privileged situation, the one that allows us to use the dollar as a currency. This is part of our strength as an international business hub.

A move towards inclusion in any of these blocs requires geopolitical maturity. Our office, like every president in office, must be dedicated to protecting the best interests of the country and its citizens. Panama in my opinion It does not take advantage of its economic relationship with China in a balanced way. Our participation or not, must ensure the future of current and future generations, with actions that never violate our condition as A free and sovereign state.