Enrique Riquelme’s business ties to Panama have resurfaced as he is discussed as a possible challenger in Real Madrid’s election process. His companies have expanded in Panama through solar investments and past work linked to the Panama Canal expansion.
Lebanon and Israel have opened new negotiations as fighting with Hezbollah continues, raising hopes for diplomacy but leaving the risk of escalation high. The talks come amid sustained US pressure for a breakthrough.
President José Raúl Mulino defended the growth of Panama’s state payroll, linking it to schools, hospitals and security needs. Economists Ernesto Bazán and Carlos Araúz said the increase worsens the deficit and does not prove the state is becoming more efficient.
Police in Panama City arrested another man suspected in the March killing of a merchant in Herrera province. The case continues to move forward as investigators pursue those believed involved.
Acodeco detected alleged misleading advertising and expired products at Wow Depot, a recently opened warehouse store in Panama. The case underscores consumer protection enforcement in the country’s retail sector.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance clarified how CEPANIM certificate payments will be calculated, including 3% annual interest on the retained Thirteenth Month. The explanation gives holders a clearer way to estimate what they may receive.
Panama lawmakers questioned the National Assembly’s operating and payroll spending after approval of a $26 million transfer to the legislature. The decision has renewed debate over transparency and public spending priorities.
China may gain strategic ground as US pressure on Iran escalates, with knock-on effects for global energy markets and diplomacy. The standoff could also shape trade and shipping interests relevant to Panama and Latin America.
US Border Patrol chief Mike Banks has resigned as the Trump administration continues a major immigration overhaul inside Homeland Security. The change adds to a series of high-profile departures and could reverberate across migration routes in the Americas.
Doctors at Colón’s Hospital Manuel Amador Guerrero performed the facility’s first craniotomy for a brain tumor on a woman over 50 who arrived after seizures. The surgery marks a milestone for specialized care in the province.
Dredging work is underway in Changuinola to clear a blocked drainage channel that was affecting several communities. The cleanup is intended to improve water flow and reduce flooding risk in Bocas del Toro.
A senior U.S. economic official met with Panamanian authorities in Panama City to discuss strengthening economic and energy alliances. The visit highlights Panama’s role as a strategic partner in regional trade and cooperation.
Twelve people are on trial in Panama over the 2019 La Joyita prison massacre, which left 13 inmates dead and 11 wounded. The case has revived scrutiny of the country’s penitentiary system.
Chiriquí will celebrate its 177th anniversary in San Félix with a program that includes tributes to people who have left a mark on the province. Authorities say the event is ready and aims to strengthen community identity.
Panama’s senior women’s national team will play Jamaica in two June friendlies, giving the squad another opportunity to prepare and test itself regionally. The matches will serve as important tune-ups for both teams.
Lebanon is seeking a new ceasefire deal in U.S.-hosted talks with Israel, a rare direct diplomatic move as regional tensions remain high. Any breakthrough could help lower the risk of wider conflict in the Middle East.
U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg met with top Panamanian officials in Panama City during a regional tour focused on energy security and critical minerals. The talks highlighted continued U.S.-Panama cooperation on trade, supply chains, and shared economic growth.
Bank of America is projecting a positive economic outlook for Panama in 2026, citing market confidence that places the country near BBB investment-grade metrics. The assessment highlights fiscal consolidation and macroeconomic stability as key strengths.
President José Raúl Mulino ruled out changes to his Cabinet and defended the expansion of the state payroll, rejecting claims that the new posts are unnecessary. His comments reinforce a message of continuity as his administration enters its second year.
MIDA’s canine unit seized 286.19 kilograms of animal and plant products from passengers’ luggage at Tocumen Airport in April. The operation underscores Panama’s border controls designed to protect agriculture and biosecurity.