Panama's leader seeks Dutch investment

PANAMA CITY, May 29 (Xinhua) -- Panama's President Ricardo Martinelli on Wednesday met with businessmen and government officials of the Netherlands during a visit to the European country, seeking new trade and investment possibilities for Panama, official sources said.

While meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, Martinelli expressed his interest in increasing trade ties with the Netherlands. He also invited Rutte for an official visit to Panama.

Martinelli also met with the president of the Netherlands Confederation of Industrialists and Employers, Bernard Wintjes, and took part in a roundtable with representatives of the 15 most important Dutch companies interested in investing in Panama.

Martinelli said there are significant business opportunities in Panama, especially in the maritime sector, tourism industry, energy and real estate.

He touted Panama's strong banking system and geographical location, saying it is a key location for investment.

According to the presidency, the Dutch businessmen showed interest in the investment opportunities offered by the Panama Canal's expansion project, port construction and the energy market. They also praised the building of a subway system in Panama City.

Martinelli, on a tour of Europe this week that also includes visits to Belgium and France, led a Panamanian delegation that includes Foreign Minister Fernando Nunez, Minister of Trade and Industries Ricardo Quijano, Minister of Panama Canal Affairs and Secretary of the Subway Roberto Roy, and Panama's Ambassador to the Netherlands Jose Teran.

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