TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) met with a delegation from Panama on Thursday, urging closer cooperation in international affairs.

Hsiao said the delegation members help shape key policies for the people of Panama, per CNA. She said their visit gives them a clear view of Taiwan’s recent progress and its efforts to engage the world.

The vice president noted she recently met Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China Co-chairs Manuel Cohen and Roland Ameth de Gracia in Brussels. She said the Panamanian lawmakers understand Taiwan’s international challenges and the geopolitical pressure it faces.

Despite these hurdles, Taiwan continues to grow through innovation and plays a responsible role in the global community, she added.

Hsiao also highlighted that Panama’s territory is about twice the size of Taiwan’s. She said the two sides may not be major powers but seek to contribute meaningfully to regional stability and international cooperation.