In-depth reporting on government actions, political parties, and policy debates in Panama. We track elections, legislative changes, and the actors shaping public life.
The EU’s flagship Lobito Corridor rail project in Africa is facing criticism over ties to Chinese state-owned firms, undercutting Brussels’ bid to present it as an alternative to Beijing. The dispute highlights the geopolitical battle over infrastructure, trade routes, and influence in the Global South.
The U.S. Navy has deployed to Panama for drills linked to South America, according to a brief source report. Limited details were provided on the scope or objectives of the operation.
Hong Kong’s independent inquiry into the deadly Tai Po blaze resumed on its fifth day, with a fire safety contractor due to testify. The probe is examining how the Wang Fuk Court fire, which killed 168 people, unfolded and whether safety systems failed.
China has sanctioned Japanese lawmaker Keiji Furuya over visits to Taiwan, escalating a dispute tied to Beijing’s opposition to Taiwan’s international contacts. The move underscores rising regional tensions with implications for Japan, China and broader Latin American diplomacy.
Taiwan opposition leader Cheng Li-wun will visit mainland China next month in a Beijing-backed trip framed as an effort to promote peaceful cross-strait relations. The visit comes as tensions remain high between Taipei and Beijing.
A South China Morning Post commentary argues that UN Security Council paralysis is weakening international law and fueling conflicts from Ukraine to Gaza. The piece says the veto power has become a barrier to global action.
Japan’s reported consideration of Minamitorishima for nuclear waste disposal has sparked concern over environmental risks and local consent. The move highlights the global challenge of finding permanent storage for radioactive material.
Israel’s parliament approved a 2026 budget that boosts military spending by about US$10 billion and avoids an automatic government collapse. The vote comes as the country continues to fight on multiple fronts.
A La Prensa commentary says Panama City’s shortage of quality public space is pushing urban life into private, controlled developments. It calls for open spaces to be treated as a collective right, not a privilege.
The UN nuclear watchdog says Iran’s Khondab heavy water production plant is no longer operational. The development adds a new point of attention in the long-running standoff over Iran’s nuclear program.
Chinese researchers say they have built an 11-satellite optical navigation network that can provide accurate positioning when GPS is jammed or unavailable. The technology could affect drones, autonomous vehicles and space missions, while highlighting growing competition over resilient navigation systems.
Hong Kong has appointed Janice Tse Siu-wa as its new constitutional affairs chief, with the first five-year plan now her top priority. The move highlights the city’s growing focus on long-term policy alignment with Beijing.
Panama’s upcoming Ombudsman appointment is being described as a major test of democratic accountability and human rights protection. The commentary calls for a transparent, merit-based process free from partisan influence.
An attack on a Kuwait power and desalination plant killed an Indian worker and caused significant damage, highlighting risks to critical infrastructure in the Gulf. The incident may also add to broader regional tensions.
Oil prices climbed above $116 a barrel as Iran accused the United States of preparing an invasion, rattling global energy markets. The surge could add pressure on fuel costs and inflation across Latin America.
China and the Philippines resumed diplomatic talks in Quanzhou, including discussion of South China Sea energy cooperation. But Chinese observers say tensions at sea are still likely to block any breakthrough.
A U.S. warship’s visit to Panama highlights the country’s strategic maritime role, though the source provides few details about the ship’s mission. The arrival is notable against the backdrop of Panama’s central place in canal and regional shipping activity.
President Donald Trump signaled the US may let a Russian oil tanker reach Cuba, offering a potential lifeline as the island faces severe fuel shortages. The decision could affect Cuba’s economy and regional migration pressures.
An independent review into Hong Kong’s deadly Tai Po high-rise fire is exposing disturbing details and systemic failures. The inquiry could drive major reforms in fire safety and building oversight.
A Russian tanker carrying more than 700,000 barrels of oil is expected to dock in Cuba after the U.S. reportedly allowed it to proceed. The delivery could provide temporary relief as Cuba struggles with severe fuel shortages and daily blackouts.