Panama strengthening links with Barbados

Article by GE

PANAMA’S PRESIDENT Juan Carlos Varela says there are several opportunities for Barbados to benefit from increased trade with that Central American nation.

Varela, who arrived in the island yesterday to take part in the CARICOM Heads of Government Conference being hosted by Barbados, said in addition to increased tourists from Panama, his country was keen to have students and teachers from his homeland attend the Barbados Community College to improve their English skills.

The political leader, who is on his second trip to Barbados, said he was impressed with the quality of the tertiary institution.

Barbados and Panama have been forging closer ties over the past two years as Panama celebrates the centenary of the Panama Canal, while the two countries hail the role played by thousands of Barbadians who helped to construct the massive water way.

The CARICOM Heads of Government Conference ends tomorrow. (GE)