Progress in Panama Politics, Economics, and Free Trade with the United States

This text examines the close relations between the United States and Panama, stemming in large part from the extensive linkages developed when the Canal was under U.S. control and Panama hosted major U.S. military installations. The current relationship is characterised by extensive counter-narcotics cooperation; support to promote Panama's economic, political, and social development; and a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) that entered into force at the end of October 2012.