On February 22nd, Ananta Centre, in collaboration with Indiaspora, hosted an engaging session featuring Janaina Tewaney, the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Panama. The interactive session, attended by approximately 30 participants, fostered intriguing discussions with the Minister.
The discussion highlighted India’s increasing influence in the region, particularly focusing on opportunities in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and renewable energy. It also shed light on India’s historical involvement in building the Panama Canal and its unique identity as both geographically Central American and culturally Caribbean. The conversation recognized the significant contributions of the Afro-Caribbean community to Panama’s development.
Moreover, Panama’s strategic location as a bridge between India and Latin America was emphasized, underscoring its importance in facilitating trade routes and logistics between the two regions. There was admiration for Panama’s role as a connector, with potential for Indian investments in the region. Additionally, Panama’s role in linking Brazil to Asia via the Panama Canal was highlighted as a crucial aspect of its global significance.