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On September 16, 2025, Panama and France formalized their commitment to the development of the Panama-David interoceanic train project by signing an intent declaration. The agreement was signed by Henry Faarup, Executive Secretary of the National Railway Secretariat of Panama, and Aude de Amorim, Ambassador of France to Panama, during the French Week in Panama. The ceremony took place at the Francisco Arias Paredes Hall of the Bolívar Palace, with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez, serving as a witness of honor.
This collaboration aims to lay the groundwork for future projects focused on the development and modernization of Panama’s railway system. The primary objectives include enhancing connectivity and promoting sustainable transportation options between the Atlantic and Pacific coasts.
Strengthening Ties with French Companies
The agreement seeks to consolidate closer collaboration with French companies, such as Alstom, which supplies trains to the Panama Metro. The initiative also aims to involve other French firms in infrastructure projects, communications, and bridge construction.
A key aspect of the agreement is coordinating necessary actions between Panamanian contractors and French industries for the comprehensive supply of transportation systems and structures. These projects are to be financed through France’s public export credit agency, the French Treasury, and other financial mechanisms.
Technical Support and Financing Opportunities
From a technical standpoint, the French National Railway Secretariat will provide support in structuring, developing, designing, and conducting feasibility studies for the projects, when applicable. This assistance will be channeled through programs supported by France’s Ministry of Economy and Finance and Business France.
Ambassador de Amorim encouraged French entrepreneurs to seize this opportunity and emphasized that there are no restrictions on doing business with Panama. She highlighted that France can offer financial instruments, such as treasury loans or credit insurance, which allow for mobilizing funds at an early stage of the project.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Minister Martínez-Acha Vásquez noted that Panama is actively working with French companies to leverage economic opportunities, underscoring the strong relationship between the two countries. This collaboration is further emphasized by the communication between Presidents Emmanuel Macron and José Raúl Mulino.
Looking ahead, Panama plans to invest over $25 billion in infrastructure over the next decade, focusing on sectors such as logistics, trade, innovation, and energy. Prior to the signing of the declaration, Minister Martínez-Acha Vásquez met with representatives from 17 French companies interested in investing and conducting business in Panama, as economic forecasts predict sustainable growth in the coming years.
The relationship between France and Panama is at its best, with close communication between Presidents Macron and Mulino. Panama is extending an invitation to President Macron, as no French head of state has ever visited the country.
For his part, Faarup emphasized that the French are very interested in the construction of the train, having had positive experiences with the Panama Metro. The goal is to collaborate with them in the best possible way, as they are experts in such infrastructure projects.
Hope they do better than their last excursion into Panama (Columbia).