The FATF included Panama in its gray list of countries with deficiencies in their fight against money laundering and terrorist financing in 2014. Indeed, “fighting” corruption is, according to the declaration of the new American ambassador to Panama, one of the priorities of her “mission” in the country. This will enable it to strengthen bilateral relations.

At a press conference at his official residence in Panama City, Aponte said, “I know that corruption is one of the main concerns of Panamanians and that's also the case in the United States. Combating corruption in the regions is one of the priorities of President (Joe) Biden's administration and my mission in Panama.” According to him, “it is very important that corruption be combated, that it does not undermine democracy, that it does not weaken government institutions, so that they can develop and continue to function effectively.”

Note that Panama is ranked as the second country on the continent with the second highest perception of corruption in the government with 40%, preceded only by Guatemala (42%), and ahead of Peru (38%), Colombia (36%) and Venezuela (33%) according to a CID Gallup survey published last October.