Panama Seeks Japanese Support for Metro Line 3 Extension, Canal Treaty

Panama has requested increased financial backing from Japan to extend the Metro Line 3 further towards La Chorrera and to support other key projects, including the Cerro Patacón sanitation initiative and the proposed Panama-David train. The discussions took place during a meeting between Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi.

During the meeting, Tokyo committed to evaluating Panama's invitation for Japan to accede to the Protocol of the Permanent Neutrality Treaty of the Panama Canal. Japan is currently the third-largest user of the Canal and the primary user of Panama's merchant marine fleet.

President Mulino expressed gratitude for Japan's existing support for the Metro Line 3 financing and the ongoing tunnel construction beneath the Panama Canal. This tunnel project has reached 77% completion and is slated to begin operations in 2028, according to figures released by the Presidency in June.

Further topics included the potential establishment of a direct commercial flight route between Panama City and Tokyo, which All Nippon Airways might operate, though no specific date was provided. Discussions also covered future port concessions, upcoming tenders by the Panama Canal Authority for a gas pipeline and two megaport facilities, the logistical project at Puerto Armuelles, and potential cooperation in artificial intelligence.

Foreign Minister Motegi highlighted Panama's strategic importance as a gateway to the Caribbean and Latin America for Japan. President Mulino emphasized that the bilateral relationship gains greater significance due to Japan's substantial involvement in maritime and canal-related activities.