DEA Acting Administrator makes first visit to Panama

 Shea highlights partnership to combat illicit drugs

WASHINGTON - Drug Enforcement Administration Acting Administrator Timothy Shea arrived in Panama this week on an official visit, marking the first time a DEA Administrator visited Panama, a hub for regional DEA operations.  

Upon his arrival, Acting Administrator Shea and United States Chargé d’Affaires to Panama Stewart Tuttle met with the President of Panama Laurentino Cortizo, Panama’s Attorney General Eduardo Ulloa, Public Security Minister Juan Pino, and other high-level Panamanian security officials.  The U.S. delegation reaffirmed its longstanding law enforcement relationship with Panama and its role in maintaining security in the region.  

“Panama is a critical transshipment point for drug cartels operating in South America and those operating in Mexico,” said Acting Administrator Shea. “DEA’s relationship with the government and citizens of Panama is based on our shared commitment to combatting these threats and protecting our communities and families from the scourge of drug trafficking.  I am honored to personally convey my thanks for the critical support Panama has provided DEA and affirm our commitment to this ever important and enduring relationship.” 

Acting Administrator Shea’s visit to Panama underscores the broader bilateral security agenda and helps lay the groundwork for the annual U.S.-Panama High-Level Security Dialogue (HLSD), scheduled to take place in Panama December 10.  At this event, senior government officials will hold bilateral security talks regarding efforts to combat drug trafficking and money laundering in the region.   

Photos from Acting Administrator Shea’s visit are available at https://flic.kr/s/aHsmSEg9YS.