History of Mexico–Panama relations in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 24, 2025

Mexico and Panama have maintained diplomatic relations since 1904, engaging in multilateral cooperation through various regional organizations like the Association of Caribbean States, Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, Latin American Integration Association, Organization of Ibero-American States, and the Organization of American States. Their relationship reflects broader Latin American cooperation and shared interests within the region.

1902: End of the Thousand Days' War

In 1902, the Thousand Days' War between Colombia and Panama concluded. The United States took advantage of the war to build a canal in Panama.

November 1903: Panama Becomes Independent

In November 1903, Panama achieved independence, a development that paved the way for establishing diplomatic relations with Mexico.

March 1904: Diplomatic Relations Established

On March 1, 1904, Mexico and Panama formally established diplomatic relations, solidifying their connection as independent nations.

1904: Diplomatic Relations Established

In 1904, Mexico and Panama established diplomatic relations, marking a formal beginning to their bilateral ties. Both nations became mutual members of various organizations such as the Association of Caribbean States and the Organization of American States.

1928: Agreement on Consular Assistance Signed

In 1928, Mexico and Panama signed an Agreement on Consular Assistance to provide support and protection to their respective citizens.

1956: Mexican President Visits Panama

In 1956, Mexican President Adolfo Ruiz Cortines made an official visit to Panama, marking the first such visit by a Mexican head of state.

1969: Panamanian President Visits Mexico

In 1969, Panamanian President Omar Torrijos visited Mexico, fostering stronger ties between the two nations. This visit was part of a series of high-level engagements between the leaders.

1977: Torrijos-Carter Treaties Signed

In 1977, Panama and the United States signed the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, which set the stage for Panama to eventually gain control of the Panama Canal by December 1999.

1979: Treaty on the Execution of Criminal Judgments

In 1979, Mexico and Panama signed a Treaty on the Execution of Criminal Judgments.

December 1989: Mexico and Panama Withdraw Ambassadors

In December 1989, Mexico and Panama each withdrew their ambassadors due to international accusations against Panamanian President Manuel Noriega, who was alleged to be involved in money laundering.

September 1992: Diplomatic Relations Re-established

In September 1992, Mexico and Panama re-established full diplomatic relations, mending the ties that were strained in 1989.

1995: Agreement on Cooperation to Combat Drug Trafficking and Drug Dependency

In 1995, Mexico and Panama signed an Agreement on Cooperation to Combat Drug Trafficking and Drug Dependency.

1996: Agreement on Technical and Scientific Cooperation

In 1996, Mexico and Panama signed an Agreement on Technical and Scientific Cooperation.

1997: Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters

In 1997, Mexico and Panama signed a Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters.

December 1999: Panama Gains Control of Canal

In December 1999, Panama officially gained control of the Panama Canal, following the Torrijos-Carter Treaties signed in 1977.

December 1999: Canal Zone Transfer Ceremony

On December 31, 1999, Mexican President Ernesto Zedillo joined Panamanian President Mireya Moscoso and other world leaders to celebrate the transfer of the Canal Zone to Panamanian control, marking a significant milestone in Panama's sovereignty.

2000: Agreement on Touristic Cooperation

In 2000, Mexico and Panama signed an Agreement on Touristic Cooperation to promote tourism between the two countries.

2002: Agreement for Mutual Cooperation in the Exchange of Information regarding Financial Transactions

In 2002, Mexico and Panama signed an Agreement for Mutual Cooperation in the Exchange of Information regarding Financial Transactions carried out through Financial Institutions to Prevent, Detect and Combat Operations of Illegal Origin or Money Laundering.

2004: Extradition Treaty

In 2004, Mexico and Panama signed an Extradition Treaty.

2010: Agreement to Avoid Double Taxation and Prevent Tax Evasion in Tax on Income

In 2010, Mexico and Panama signed an Agreement to Avoid Double Taxation and Prevent Tax Evasion in Tax on Income.

April 2014: Free Trade Agreement Signed

In April 2014, Mexico and Panama entered into a free trade agreement, aimed at boosting economic ties.

2023: Two-Way Trade Amount

In 2023, the value of two-way trade between Mexico and Panama reached US$1.9 billion. Mexico's primary exports to Panama included household electronics, steel, and motor vehicles, while Panama's exports to Mexico included palm oil and chemical-based products.

March 2024: 120 Years of Diplomatic Relations Celebrated

In March 2024, Mexico and Panama commemorated 120 years of diplomatic relations, celebrating a long history of bilateral cooperation and friendship.

November 2024: Mexican President's Layover in Panama

In November 2024, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum made a brief stopover in Panama while en route to Brazil on a commercial flight. During her visit, she met with Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez.