Wang Yi meets with Panamanian Foreign Minister Martinez-Acha.

On the 26th local time, Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with the Foreign Minister of Panama, Martinelli-Ocha, during the high-level meeting of the United Nations Security Council in New York. Wang Yi stated that the history of exchanges between China and Panama is long-standing. In the 19th century, a large number of Chinese laborers went to Panama to build railways and dig canals, making contributions to the economic and social development of Panama. In the nearly 9 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Panama, bilateral relations have developed smoothly overall, with the trade volume between the two countries doubling compared to before the establishment of diplomatic relations, bringing tangible benefits to the people of Panama. The facts fully prove that establishing diplomatic relations between China and Panama is in the long-term interests of both countries and is the will of the people and the trend of the times. Adhering to the One China principle is the political foundation of China-Panama diplomatic relations. The Chinese side appreciates the repeated reaffirmation by the Panamanian leadership of adhering to the One China principle and not providing Taiwan with space to engage in activities. Chinese enterprises have been deeply rooted in Panama for many years, making important contributions to promoting economic development and improving people's livelihood in Panama. China hopes that Panama will effectively safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises. China has always believed that China-Panama relations are not directed against any third party and should not be interfered with by any third party. China is willing to work with Panama to uphold the original intention of establishing diplomatic relations, deepen pragmatic cooperation, eliminate external interference, and promote the healthy and stable development of relations between the two countries. Martinelli-Ocha stated that China is an important force in safeguarding multilateralism, and Panama is also committed to effective multilateralism. Panama attaches great importance to its relationship with China and is fully aware of the importance and sensitivity of the Taiwan issue. Panama will unwaveringly adhere to the One China policy and will not allow Taiwan to establish institutions in Panama. The Panamanian people remember the contributions made by the Chinese people to the railway and canal projects in Panama in the early days. Panama is willing to work with China to face the future, resolve differences through constructive dialogue on the basis of mutual respect, establish solid trust, and open a new chapter in Panama-China relations.