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Panama President Martinelli meets with President Nathan at Istana
By Lynda Hong | Posted: 18 October 2010 2233 hrs
Panama President Ricardo Martinelli Berrocal (L) being welcomed by President S R Nathan.
SINGAPORE: President S R Nathan met with Panama President Ricardo Martinelli Berrocal at the Istana on Monday.
The Panamanian President is here for a 3-day State Visit, from the 17 to 19 October, at the invitation of President Nathan - the first by a Panamanian President to Singapore.
During the visit, they noted the many similarities between Panama and Singapore, and agreed that both countries can benefit by learning from each other.
President Martinelli also expressed interest in learning about Singapore's education system, and to capitalise on training opportunities provided under the Singapore Cooperation Programme.
The presidents also discussed ways to enhance linkages between the two countries.
Prime Minister Lee also called on President Martinelli, where the leaders discussed ways to enhance cooperation and Mr Lee was briefed on plans to expand the Panama Canal and the economic opportunities in Panama.
They also agreed that they should encourage businessmen from both countries to get to know each other better to facilitate greater economic cooperation.
Earlier in the day, Foreign Affairs Minister George Yeo called on Panamanian Vice-President and Foreign Minister Juan Carlos Varela, where both men agreed that Singapore-Panama relations were very good and substantive.
They also discussed other potential areas of cooperation, and exchanged views on regional and international developments.
After the courtesy call, Vice-President Varela and Minister Yeo signed the Singapore-Panama Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement.
On Monday evening, President Nathan hosted a State Banquet at the Istana in honour of President Martinelli, where President Nathan said Singapore and Panama were also on the verge of signing an Air Services Agreement.
He said these agreements increase do not just connectivity between the countries, but also business opportunities.
-CNA/ac
