International Focus Magazine iF-March 20 Digital Edition | Page 12

seen on the scene
P
Panama Week at the St. Regis Hotel
PROPANAMA, the Panama government agency responsible for internation-
al promotion of the country joined with the Consulate of Panama in Hous-
ton and the U.S.-Panama Business Council (USPA) to organize “Panama
Week Texas 2020” held March 9 and 10 of 2020.The US- Panama business
council celebrated its 25th Anniversary. The participants were treated to a
continental breakfast and a delicious lunch at the luxurious St. Regis Hotel.
The event focused on areas in which Texas excels and are important to Pan-
ama’s economy. Topics discussed were Maritime, energy/oil & gas, infrastruc-
ture, aviation, education, trade & investment, life sciences and logistics. High
government officials and leaders of the private sector were available for public
discussions and private meetings. This is the first of three “Panama Weeks”
that will take place at U.S. cities in 2020.
The Ambassador of Panama, Hon. Juan B. Sosa and the new Consul General
of Panama in Houston, Hon. Jaime Sosa were the hosts to many other officials
from Houston and Panama throughout the week.
“The Government of Panama estimates that in 2020 the economy will grow
between 4% and 4.5%. The source of this increase will be the construction
sector thanks to the change in the preferential interest rate, investments in in-
frastructure projects, and tourism supported by the impact that will have the
completion of Tocuman’s terminal 2, the opening of the convention center,
the “stopover” campaign of COPA Airlines, and the international promotion
of the country. In addition, copper exports will be in full swing and an in-
crease in exports of agricultural products will complement the reactivation of
the economy.” US-Panama Business Council
The Houston/Texas Gateway to the Americas 2020 Conference is a strategic
event for anyone looking to be a part of the exciting opportunities in Panama.
Go to https://www.houstongatewaytoamericas.org to register
Heidi PP, iF Magazine
12 iF Magazine |March 2020