AGP Executive Report

UN Security Council: Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal, Trinidad and Tobago, and Zimbabwe were elected non-permanent members for 2027–28, replacing Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, Panama and Somalia; Germany lost its bid in a “bitter defeat,” while Kyrgyzstan won the Asia-Pacific seat in a contested race. Panama Canal: Panama Canal Authority is drafting a new El Niño playbook to avoid the harsh vessel restrictions that caused congestion during the 2023–24 drought, with draft limits and rules being reviewed early. Ghana–Panama World Cup build-up: Ghana’s Black Stars arrived in the U.S. for 2026 preparations after a Wales friendly where Caleb Yirenkyi scored in a 1–1 draw; Ghana’s Group L rivals include Panama, England and Croatia, with Ghana opening against Panama on June 17. World Cup fan culture: In Massachusetts, multiple free World Cup watch parties are scheduled, including England vs Ghana (June 23) and other match screenings across Boston and Barnstable. Agriculture threat near the border: USDA confirmed the first New World screwworm case in South Texas in decades, triggering quarantines and expanded surveillance as officials warn of risks to cattle.

UN Diplomacy: Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal, Trinidad and Tobago, and Zimbabwe won seats on the UN Security Council for 2027-2028, while Germany fell short in the Western Europe race and Kyrgyzstan edged the Philippines in a tight Asia-Pacific contest. Panama Spotlight: The election also ends Panama’s current UNSC term, with Trinidad and Tobago replacing Panama for the Latin America/Caribbean slot. Public Health: PAHO warned measles is surging across the Americas ahead of the World Cup, with Panama among countries reporting cases linked to outbreaks or imports. Agriculture Watch: The USDA confirmed a suspected New World screwworm case in South Texas, as officials say the parasite is moving closer to the border. World Cup Build-Up (Ghana): Ghana’s Black Stars left Wales for the U.S., drawn in Group L with Panama, England, and Croatia, after a 1-1 friendly draw that left players and pundits debating squad readiness.

World Cup squads locked in: FIFA has finalized 26-man rosters for the June 11–July 19 tournament across the U.S., Canada and Mexico, with Group L featuring Ghana, Panama, England and Croatia. Ghana vs Wales warm-up: Carlos Queiroz’s Black Stars were held 1-1 in Cardiff after Caleb Yirenkyi’s first senior goal was cancelled by Lewis Koumas late on—Jerome Opoku says the team can only improve with more time. Panama in the spotlight: Ghana’s opener is set for June 17 vs Panama in Toronto, with the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expected to attend. Health watch for fans and travel: PAHO warns measles cases are up sharply across the Americas ahead of the World Cup, urging stronger surveillance and vaccination. Panama travel connectivity: Copa Airlines restarted flights between Panama and Barcelona with three weekly frequencies, boosting tourism links via Tocumen. Regional agriculture threat: U.S. officials warn new world screwworm detections are nearing the Texas border, with Central America—including Panama—already affected. Maritime tensions: Iran’s IRG Navy says it struck the Panamanian-flagged MSC Sariska after a U.S. attack on an Iranian vessel.

Panama Tax Overhaul: Panama passed Ley 641, a 15% levy on multinationals that can’t prove real economic activity in-country, aiming to shed EU “non-cooperative” tax-jurisdiction pressure while keeping territorial tax exemptions for firms with genuine local presence. Ghana World Cup Prep (Cardiff): Carlos Queiroz’s Black Stars drew Wales 1-1 as Caleb Yirenkyi scored his first senior goal, only for Lewis Koumas to equalize in stoppage time. England Heat Check: Thomas Tuchel’s England began World Cup preparations in humid Florida, with players adjusting to 32C conditions before friendlies and Group L matches that include Ghana and Panama. World Cup Rosters: FIFA released full squads for all 48 teams—1,248 players total—with changes still allowed up to 24 hours before kickoff for serious injury or illness. Panama-Linked Maritime & Security: Iran’s IRGC Navy said it struck Panamanian-flagged MSC Sariska with a cruise missile amid escalating Sea of Oman tensions. Prison Violence in Colón: A mass escape at La Joyita prison left two dead and multiple injured after a prisoner relocation operation triggered riots and a large security response.

World Cup Focus (Panama vs Ghana): Panama’s national team is chasing its first World Cup match win under Dane Thomas Christiansen, with the squad aiming to “put Panama on the global map” in Group L against Ghana, England and Croatia. Ghana Squad Shock: Ghana confirmed its 26-man World Cup roster late, including Thomas Partey despite rape and sexual assault charges pending in London; coach Carlos Queiroz said he’s acting on presumption of innocence and rejected “social media” judgment. Injuries & Call-Ups: Ghana also dealt with Mohammed Kudus and Alexander Djiku setbacks, while Solomon Agbasi was added as an emergency goalkeeper option. Panama in the Spotlight: Panama’s pre-World Cup warm-up ended in a heavy Brazil defeat (6-2), underscoring the uphill task ahead of the opener. Maritime Tensions: A Panama-flagged MSC container ship, MSC Sariska V, was damaged by a large explosion off Iraq, as Gulf security fears widen amid Iran-U.S. clashes.

World Cup Travel Shock: With the tournament starting soon, reports say America’s World Cup bookings are far below expectations—about 80% of host-city hotels are booking under target, and fans complain of steep prices (including a $150 return train fare for England vs Panama). Ghana Squad Drama: Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz says Thomas Partey’s selection stands on “presumption of innocence,” while Alexander Djiku is ruled out of the World Cup with Derrick Luckassen called up; Ghana also plans to announce its final squad Tuesday. Panama in the Spotlight: Brazil thrashed Panama 6-2 in a World Cup warm-up at the Maracanã, setting the tone for Panama’s Group L opener vs Ghana. Labor Rights Warning for Panama: The ITUC puts Panama among the “10 worst countries” for workers’ rights in its 2026 index, citing repression and lack of basic guarantees. Maritime Tensions: A Panama-flagged ship (MSC Sariska V) was hit in the Persian Gulf amid Iran–U.S. escalation, underscoring how global shipping routes remain exposed. Local Panama Link: U.S. service members ran a three-day medical mission in Azuero, supporting remote communities in Herrera and Los Santos.

World Cup Warm-Up Shock for Panama: Brazil crushed Panama 6-2 at the Maracanã, with Vinícius Jr scoring early and Casemiro adding before the break; Panama’s consolation came late via Carlos Harvey, but the night underscored how tough Group L will be for Los Canaleros. Ghana’s World Cup Money Talks: Sports Minister Kofi Adams confirmed Black Stars players will get $100,000 each in appearance fees, while a GH¢150m World Cup budget is still awaiting Finance Ministry release. Fan Travel Ruled Out: President John Dramani Mahama said Ghana won’t fund mass supporter travel, citing nearly $11,000 per fan, and instead plans ticket support through diaspora community groups in host cities. Labor Rights Watch: A global union report says worker protections are worsening even in “stable” democracies; Panama and Argentina were added among the worst for rights. Panama Anti-Corruption Update: A Panamanian judge ordered provisional detention for former AIG director Luis Oliva amid an unjustified enrichment probe. UN Security Council Vote: The UN General Assembly is set to elect five new non-permanent Security Council members for 2027–2028, with Trinidad and Tobago running to replace Panama.

Canal & Ports Dispute: Hong Kong’s CK Hutchison is warning it may sue if Maersk’s APM Terminals takes over Panama Canal ports after Panama’s Supreme Court annulled Hutchison’s contract, setting up fresh legal and trade friction. Maritime Diplomacy: Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino says the country will push to renew its maritime agreement with China despite U.S. pressure and tougher inspections for Panamanian-flag vessels. Tax Crackdown: Panama approved Law 526 to curb shell companies by requiring “economic substance,” with non-compliant multinationals facing a 15% tax. Cybersecurity Overhaul: Panama’s Ministry of Security is promoting cyber defense reforms that expand governance and controls over strategic infrastructure sectors, including submarine cables. Regional Security: A U.S. Nimitz carrier is set to dock in Jamaica as part of “Southern Seas 2026,” after earlier stops including Panama, amid heightened U.S.-Cuba tensions. Sports (Panama in the spotlight): Ghana’s Black Stars are preparing for World Cup Group L with Panama, while Ghana reports World Cup funding delays and confirms a $100,000 appearance fee per player.

World Cup Build-Up (Ghana): Ghana’s Black Stars are stepping up for the Wales friendly in Cardiff on June 2, with 24 players training at Dragon Park after Thomas Partey and Iñaki Williams arrived; four others still absent include Alex Djiku, Kojo Oppong Peprah, Augustine Boakye, and Antoine Semenyo. World Cup Group L (Panama link): Ghana’s World Cup opener is against Panama in Toronto on June 17, with England and Croatia also in Group L—so the Wales match is the last tune-up before the squad is trimmed to 26. World Cup Warm-Up (Brazil): Brazil hosts Panama at the Maracanã in a pre-tournament friendly, with coach Carlo Ancelotti saying Neymar’s calf recovery is progressing and he could be ready for the early group matches. Panama Economy: Moody’s says Panama cut its fiscal deficit in 2025, but the improvement leaned heavily on reduced capital spending, raising concerns about long-term sustainability. Panama-India Trade: Panama’s ambassador to India says the country wants a bigger role as India’s logistics gateway to Latin America, pointing to the 16,000-strong Indian community and maritime connectivity. Public Safety (Panama): Residents on Taboga Island spotted a sea lion; authorities urge people to keep distance, avoid feeding, and don’t try to touch or capture it.

World Cup Build-Up (Panama in the spotlight): Brazil’s Carlo Ancelotti says Neymar is expected back for the group stage, with Brazil set to play friendlies including Panama before the tournament. Ghana vs Panama Group L: Ghana’s Ernest Nuamah returned to camp after an ACL injury and says the Black Stars are ready to “achieve something” despite a tough Group L that includes Panama, England and Croatia. Canal & Energy Watch: EOR says a brief blackout affecting 169,000 Panama customers was caused by a trip at the Cobre Panamá mine’s plant; separate reporting notes rising LNG and energy shipments are boosting Panama Canal transit as the canal recovers from drought limits. Security & Crime: INTERPOL-backed Operation Orca XI seized 3,308 illegal firearms and 56 tonnes of drugs across 20 countries, with arrests and major seizures reported. Travel & Tourism: Puerto Plata announced 40 June routes from seven airlines, including Copa Airlines linking to Panama. Diplomacy: Panama President José Raúl Mulino will visit Greece June 1–6, including events tied to Posidonia and maritime cooperation. Markets: Wheat futures fell sharply on export-sale cancellations, including cancellations involving Panama.

World Cup Ticket Fight: UK PM Keir Starmer urged FIFA to act after complaints of fans being “ripped off” by World Cup ticket pricing and seat-location confusion, as US state attorneys general push FIFA to answer allegations of misleading sales. Ghana World Cup Prep (Group L): Ghana’s Henry Asante Twum says the provisional 28-man squad is unlikely to change unless injuries force tweaks; Carlos Queiroz is expected to name the final 26 on June 1, with Ghana opening against Panama on June 17. Nuamah Returns: Ernest Nuamah rejoined the Black Stars camp in Cardiff after an ACL comeback, saying he’s ready to “give it all” as Ghana fine-tunes for Wales friendly on June 2. Panama Tourism Watch: Panama’s tourism hit $6.583B in 2025, with 3.0M international visitors, while Old Town residents report months of low water pressure and irregular supply. Maritime Security: Russian drones struck foreign-flagged commercial ships in the Black Sea corridor, including a Panama-flagged vessel, raising fresh shipping safety concerns. UN Sanctions Debate: Six UN Security Council members abstained on renewing South Sudan sanctions and the arms embargo, arguing they’ve failed to deliver lasting peace and may hinder political transition.

Water Woes in Old Town: Residents and businesses near San Felipe’s Old Town say potable water shortages and low pressure have dragged on for months, despite reports to the 311 hotline and requests for meter checks, with no clear fixes from IDAAN. Tourism Dollars: Panama’s tourism brought in $6.583 billion in foreign exchange in 2025, up from $4.6155 billion in 2018, and welcomed 3.004 million international visitors (+8.2% vs. 2024). Banking Credibility: Panama’s banking regulator, Milton Ayón, pushed back on “sham” claims, saying the sector has real presence and that the new economic substance rules under Law 526 should strengthen Panama’s financial reputation. Ancient Trade, Emeralds: Researchers confirmed green stones in Panama’s pre-Columbian tombs were Colombian emeralds, moved through a trade network spanning over 700 km. Ghana World Cup Build-Up (Panama in Group L): Ghana’s Carlos Queiroz is preparing for the Wales friendly in Cardiff, with a 28-man provisional squad and growing competition as players report in ahead of the June 17 opener vs Panama.

World Cup Injury Watch: Brazil’s Neymar has been ruled out for two to three weeks with a grade-two calf tear, putting his June 13 opener vs Morocco in serious doubt and forcing him to miss friendlies against Panama and Egypt. Panama in the Spotlight: The friendlies include Brazil vs Panama, and the matchup lands as Panama’s World Cup group focus sharpens. Canal & Geopolitics: China warned Panama against “third-party interference” as canal-port tensions intensify, while Panama pushed back on U.S. pressure amid wider China-U.S. friction. Maritime Security: Russia struck a Turkish-owned cargo ship in Ukraine’s Odesa corridor, injuring crew and reigniting fears for Black Sea shipping safety. Tourism Outlook: WTTC forecasts Central and South America’s travel and tourism to outpace the world in 2026, with visitor spending rising 7.8%. Sanctions & Shipping: The U.S. imposed fresh Iran-linked oil trade sanctions, including a Panama-flagged tanker, even as ceasefire talks reportedly move forward. Infrastructure Watch: Metro will review the financial viability of the Panama and San Miguelito cable car project after no bids.

Panama–China Maritime Tensions: President José Raúl Mulino rejected claims the U.S. pressured Panama over the Canal-area port dispute, saying talks with China’s Wang Yi and Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha in New York were a “transcendental step” aimed at renewing a key maritime deal. Transit & Canal Watch: The Panama Canal Authority said no transit restrictions are expected through Dec. 31, 2026, pointing to historically high Gatún and Alhajuela lake levels and water-saving measures as El Niño pressure builds. Public Works: Metro de Panamá will review the financial viability of the Panama–San Miguelito cable car after no bids were submitted in the tender process. Security & Sanctions Spillover: The U.S. Treasury imposed fresh sanctions on Iran’s military oil trade, including a Panama-flagged tanker, as Washington and Tehran also discuss a possible extension of a ceasefire. World Cup Shock for Panama’s Group: Neymar’s grade-two right calf strain could sideline him for up to three weeks, making him a major doubt for Brazil’s opener vs Morocco and the warm-up friendlies that include Panama. FIFA Ticketing Under Fire: U.S. states moved to investigate FIFA over alleged misleading 2026 ticket practices and “fake scarcity,” raising pressure on host cities.

Panama-Canal Diplomacy: China’s foreign minister Wang Yi told Panama to block “third-party interference” in China–Panama ties as a port dispute tied to the canal intensifies with U.S. scrutiny. World Cup Group L Focus: Ghana’s Black Stars keep building for the June 2 Wales friendly and the June 17 opener vs Panama, with Carlos Queiroz naming a 28-man camp squad that includes Baba Rahman’s return and Ernest Nuamah back from injury; defender Gideon Mensah says the team is adapting to Queiroz’s high-intensity training. South Africa World Cup Squad: Hugo Broos named uncapped defenders Olwethu Makhanya and Bradley Cross, with Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates dominating the 26-man roster. Injury Watch (Brazil): Neymar missed Brazil training and underwent calf tests after a “minor” issue was flagged, raising fitness questions ahead of the tournament. Cybersecurity: ESET reports China-aligned groups drove major espionage activity across maritime, energy, and tech targets from Oct 2025–Mar 2026. Energy Trade: Canada’s SEFE deal with Germany for LNG from Ksi Lisims marks a first supply agreement, underscoring Europe’s push to diversify gas sources. Legal/Consumer: U.S. attorneys general opened an investigation into FIFA World Cup ticketing after claims of misleading fans and extreme resale prices.

Panama World Cup build-up: Panama has named its 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with coach Thomas Christiansen keeping a steady core from qualification and leaning on familiar options across defense, midfield and attack as the team prepares for its second tournament appearance. Water crisis: In Azuero, more than a year after taps ran dry, over 100,000 people still depend on cisterns, emergency wells and tanker deliveries, with rural families facing long trips and severe rationing. Security & justice: Panama authorities move toward extradition after the alleged leader of the Bagdad Santa Eduviges gang, Juan Carlos Valencia, was captured in Spain. Health policy: PAHO is rolling out HEARTS 2.0, a 38-step pathway to improve early detection and treatment of hypertension and related cardio-renal-metabolic conditions across primary care. Global spotlight: FIFA faces a ticketing-practices investigation after U.S. state attorneys general alleged misleading sales and artificially inflated prices, including matches involving Panama. Maritime & energy ties: Panama Maritime Chamber and BIMCO formalized a partnership, while regional LNG developments continue to reshape energy deals and shipping demand.