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• 03 / 17 / 2009

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The protocol was penned in this city by visiting Panamanian First Vice President Samuel Lewis and Vice President of the Cuban Council of Ministers Ricardo Cabrisas.

Samuel Lewis, who is also Panama’s Minister of Foreign affairs, said that the signing of the agreement is a very positive step towards the consolidation of the bilateral relations, which have been far-reaching and profitable for both parties.

After extending his gratitude on behalf of his countrymen to Cuban Revolution leader Fidel Castro, President Raul Castro and the people of Cuba, the visitor highlighted the fact that both nations found joint work and cooperation formulas.

He also said that during the five years of the Martin Torrijos administration, bilateral relations have followed an encouraging pace.

Samuel Lewis noted that thousands of Panamanians have learnt how to read and write thanks to the “Yes I can” Cuban teaching methodology and he ratified his government´s determination to wipe out illiteracy over the next months in Panama, a country with more than 3 280 000 inhabitants.

The distinguished visitor pointed out that many Panamanians have also recovered their sight and their hope for a better quality life after benefiting from the Miracle Operation free ophthalmologic rehabilitation program, boosted by Cuba in the region.

The strength and fraternity, which mark Cuba-Panama relations, will be one of the legacies of President Torrijos’s administration, said Samuel Lewis.

Also attending the signing ceremony were Cuban VP Esteban Lazo, Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, and Foreign Trade and Investment Minister Rodrigo Malmierca Díaz, as well as other Cuban government officials.


(ACN)