China, Panama establish diplomatic relations

Isabel de Saint Malo de Alvarado (left) and Wang Yi sign the communiqué

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Isabel de Saint Malo de Alvarado, the vice president and minister of foreign affairs of Panama, on June 13. The two signed the Joint Communiqué on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Panama, the main contents of which are as follows:

The People's Republic of China and the Republic of Panama, in accordance with the interests and aspirations of the peoples of the two countries, have decided to recognize each other and establish ambassadorial-level diplomatic relations from the date of signature of the communiqué.

The two governments agreed to develop friendly relations on the basis of principles of mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, mutual non-aggression, non-interference in each other's internal affairs, equality, mutual benefit and peaceful coexistence.

Panama President Juan Carlos Varela makes the annoucement.

The government of the Republic of Panama recognizes that there is only one China, and the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing China. Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. The government of the Republic of Panama has cut diplomatic ties with Taiwan and promised that it will have no official relations or contact with Taiwan.

The government of the People's Republic of China appreciates that position of the Panamanian government.

Panama President Juan Carlos Varela made the announcement on Monday night (local time). He said Panama and China have the potential for cooperation in many areas, and establishing diplomatic relations is in the interest of the Panamanian people.