Panama has recently made headlines due to a series of significant events. These include the declaration of a 20-year concession for a Canadian copper mine as unconstitutional by Panama's Supreme Court, leading to protests and a victory for environmental activists. Additionally, former Panamanian President Ricardo Martinelli sought asylum in the Nicaraguan embassy after being denied an appeal for a money laundering conviction, vowing to continue his presidential campaign despite potential disqualification. Furthermore, Panama's President, Laurentino Cortizo, signed a law imposing an indefinite moratorium on new mining concessions, as well as prohibiting the renewal of existing concessions. Tragically, Panama also faced violence as national soccer team member Gilberto Hernández was killed in an attack in Colon, with several others wounded.
Panama, officially the Republic of Panama, is a transcontinental country located in Central and South America. It is bordered by Costa Rica to the west, Colombia to the southeast, the Caribbean Sea to the north, and the Pacific Ocean to the south. Panama is known for its famous Panama Canal, a key conduit for international maritime trade. The country has a diverse population and a rich cultural heritage influenced by indigenous peoples, Spanish colonialism, and African heritage. Panama's economy is driven by the canal, banking, commerce, and tourism industries. The nation has a democratic government and has seen both periods of stability and political challenges throughout its history.
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A U.N. report says child migration through Panama’s dangerous Darien Gap is up 40% so far this year
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Jose Raul Mulino ran as the substitute for fugitive former leader Ricardo Martinelli, who was banned from participating and sought asylum in the Nicaraguan embassy after a court upheld a conviction for money laundering.
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The defendants include the founders of law firm Mossack Fonseca which was shut down in 2018.
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Ibrahima Bah sentenced to at least six years in prison for manslaughter after piloting a small boat across the English Channel, during which at least four passengers drowned.
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Former Panamanian President Ricardo Martinelli seeks asylum in Nicaraguan embassy after being denied appeal for money laundering conviction, vowing to continue presidential campaign despite potential disqualification.
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Panama's Supreme Court declared a 20-year concession for a Canadian copper mine unconstitutional, leading to widespread protests and a significant victory for environmental activists.
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An American lawyer, Kenneth Darlington, 77, shot and killed two protesters who were part of a demonstration blocking a highway in Panama.
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Panama's President, Laurentino Cortizo, signed into law an indefinite moratorium on new mining concessions, also prohibiting renewing existing concessions.
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Panama national soccer team member Gilberto Hernández was killed in a violent attack in Colon, with seven others wounded.
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Low water levels at the Panama Canal are causing a significant backlog of ships, impacting global trade and supply chains.