UN General Assembly
2024

Let me now turn to the **third issue** in my address: the unjust and discriminatory lists in which Panama has been included. Lists that lump us together with tyrannies guilty of grave atrocities—with countries that isolate themselves from the world, reject democracy, or sponsor terrorism. We reject being placed on such lists, often compiled to serve **narrow interests** of nations that lack competitiveness or appeal to their own citizens. Panama must not and will not accept this affront, especially after all the reforms we have undertaken. We have implemented significant legal and financial reforms to meet international standards on transparency and anti-money laundering. We have signed tax information exchange agreements with numerous countries. Still, it is not enough. The policies imposed under the false promise of delisting have had **catastrophic consequences** for our economy, yet we remain on these dubious lists. Panama is **not** a tax haven—unlike other jurisdictions allied with the very countries promoting these lists, which are judged by different standards.