Spain and Panama strengthen their economic and social relationship with a new Strategic Alliance

 

Spain y Panama They have formalized the renewal of their bilateral commitment by signing the new Alliance for Cooperation for Sustainable Development, a legal and operational framework that seeks to promote inclusive development and the ecological transition in the Central American country.

 

A model of advanced and horizontal cooperation

 

The signing took place within the framework of the VIII meeting of the Joint Spanish-Panamanian Cooperation Commission. By the Government of SpainThe signature was provided by Eva Granados, Secretary of State for International Cooperation, while on the Panamanian side the Vice Minister of Multilateral Affairs and Cooperation intervened, Carlos Guevara Mann.

 

This new stage in diplomatic and economic relations between the two states is defined as a model of "advanced cooperation"The goal is to consolidate Panamá as a regional benchmark in public innovation and sustainable development, focusing efforts on four strategic pillars that will shape the agenda for the coming years:

 

• Exchange of knowledge and promotion of scientific, technological and digital capabilities.
• Democratic governance with a gender focus and social participation.
• Inclusive, innovative and resilient models of economic and territorial development.
• Just and sustainable ecological transition.

 

Economic and financial impact of Spanish Cooperation

 

The presence of AECID (Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation) in Panamá It shows a trajectory of sustained growth. According to data reported as of January 2026, the volume of projects underway reaches figures significant for regional stability.

 

In addition to non-reimbursable cooperation, the portfolio includes repayable cooperation intended for critical sectors such as renewable energy and water sanitation, which are fundamental for logistics and industrial operations in the country.

 

Cooperation Indicator	Detail / Value
Total amount of projects in progress (AECID)	85 millones de euros
Official Development Assistance (ODA) 2020	0,57 millones de euros
Official Development Assistance (ODA) 2024	5,9 millones de euros
Key sectors	Renewable Energy, Water and Sanitation, Humanitarian Hub

 

Commitment on the ground and multilateralism

 

During their stay, Eva Granados has held meetings with regional representatives of the agencies of Naciones Unidas for Latin America and the Caribbean, reinforcing the role of Spain in active multilateralism. The Spanish delegation also visited the community of Nuevo Vigía, in the province of Darién.

 

In this border area with Colombia, one of the most sensitive areas due to the migratory flow, the Spanish Cooperation leads basic services and training projects in perinatal technologies in collaboration with Ministry of Health de Panamádemonstrating the reach of Spanish investment in the territory.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about the Spain-Panama Alliance

 

What is the main objective of the newly signed Alliance?

 

Establish a horizontal cooperation model that promotes the social, ecological and economic transition of Panamápositioning the country as a leader in innovation and sustainable development in the Latin American region.

 

What is the current amount of AECID's investment in Panama?

 

As of January 2026, the AECID manages a portfolio of ongoing projects and programs totaling 85 millones de euros.

 

How important is Panama to Spain's strategy in the region?

 

In addition to technical cooperation, Panamá acts as a strategic node through the humanitarian hub of the Americas, an essential platform for the management and distribution of supplies in international emergencies.