REPUBLIC OF PANAMA MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS GENERAL DIRECTORATE OF PROTOCOL AND STATE CEREMONIAL

Transcription

1 REPUBLIC OF PANAMA MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS GENERAL DIRECTORATE OF PROTOCOL AND STATE CEREMONIAL Operations Manual PANAMA CANAL EXPANSION INAUGURATION Cocoli, June 26, 2016

2 Index A. Introduction B. Program of the Inaugural Ceremony of the Expanded Panama Canal Pages 1. GENERAL INFORMATION ON THE REPUBLIC OF PANAMA Panama "Hub of the Americas" Banking Center Economic Profile Useful Information Regional Logistics Centre for Humanitarian Assistance 9 2. BRIEF HISTORY OF THE PANAMA CANAL INAUGURAL CEREMONY OF THE EXPANDED PANAMA CANAL General Event Information Invitations to the Inaugural Ceremony Official Precedence VENUES WHERE THE INAUGURAL CEREMONY WILL BE HELD Activities in the Atlantic Coast Activities in the Pacific Coast State Dinner hosted by His Excellency the President of the Republic in honor

3 of the Heads of State and/or Government, Heads of Reigning Houses ACCOMODATION Official Delegations The host country will cover the costs of the Head of the Delegation Accommodation for International Press Accommodation for Crew TRANSPORTATION Conditions of transportation offered by the Government of Panama to the Heads of State and/or Government, Heads of Reigning Houses Official aircraft, military or private flights Arrivals of Heads of State to Tocumen International Airport Arrivals of Heads of State to Panama-Pacific Airport Over-flights and Landing Permits Reception of Leaders in different terminals Departure of Heads of State in official, military or private flights Departure of Heads of State in commercial terminals LUGGAGE LIAISON Official Liaisons of Head of State and/or Government Liaison of Diplomatic Missions PRESS AND MEDIA THAT WILL PROVIDE COVERAGE TO EVENTS Guide to the official press 23

4 9.2 Access and times to provide coverage Media transportation News Liaisons Media Accreditations Coverage of the arrival of Leaders to the airport SAFETY Overview Security at the facilities Security at the Host Hotel Security at the Canal area Security of aircraft and airport Arrival and Departures of Special Aircrafts Transportation and Luggage 10.4 Departures from the airport in military or private civilian aircraft Luggage Passenger Transportation and Boarding Accreditation (Credentials) Press Credentials Vehicle passes and Security during transportation Applications for entry and carrying of weapons and other items 33

5 10.8 Agents and weapons Radio MIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTERING PANAMA Types of Visas Authorized Visas (VA) Stamped Visa (VE) Tourist Card Visa Exemption Agreements (ASV) Visa Waiver (EV) 36 C. FORMS 38 D. ANNEXES 39

6 INTRODUCTION Panama has traditionally been seen as a country that serves everyone. It has been so even before becoming a republic, but back then our geographical position was basically a bridge for the transit of people and cultures. Since before the process of conquest by Spain, our Isthmus already had significant commercial networks in what is now the Gulf of Uraba. Panama was a participant in the prehispanic exchange route, which encompassed commercial transactions that included the Caribbean, part of what is now the Republic of Colombia, Central America, Yucatan and Mexico. In the colonial period, Panama, was famous for its Portobello fairs, where the highest volume of annual trade between Spain and the territories of the Viceroyalty of Peru took place. These fairs lasted over a century and a half between the years 1606 and Gold and silver from the Spanish colonies passed through Camino de Cruces during the peak of the Spanish Empire. Today, Panama is still the route of the seven seas. And we are nested between North and South, East and West. We are a major hub for all sea routes. The Panama Canal is one of the main facilitators of world trade, connecting the Pacific Ocean with the Atlantic Ocean. It makes possible a short and economical transit route for ships worldwide. In addition, it is important to connect some of the biggest ports in the world. Canal traffic increases day by day and its extension will allow the passage of ships called Neo- Panamax, transporting goods, grain, petroleum and petroleum products, gas, and automobiles, among others. Canal expansion has value for the progress of countries, whether developed or developing, and injects significantly higher revenues to our economy.

7 Furthermore, the expanded Panama Canal is considered one of the most modern and complex infrastructures of the 21 st century. And it is primarily a work made by Panamanian hands, which makes us proud as a nation. Canal expansion will bring a significant technological development not only for Panama but for all nations. Its existence will impact world history, by connecting all maritime routes and being a facilitator of trade between the five continents. The Canal expansion will double the capacity for the transit of vessels, increase operational efficiency and provide more resources to provide better quality of life for Panamanians. We thank all the friends of Panama who have joined us in the implementation of this colossal work. You are witnesses, bastions and part of the defense of the Panama Canal, and beneficiaries of this work built, as it reads in our National Shield, "Pro Mundi Beneficio". Panama, June 26, 2016

8 INAUGURAL CEREMONY OF THE EXPANDED PANAMA CANAL PROVISIONAL PROGRAM Sunday June 26, 2016 OFFICIAL EVENTS IN AGUA CLARA LOCKS - ATLANTIC SECTOR 7:45 a.m. Line-up and entrance of Neo-Panamax ship (access channel to the Locks) 7:55 a.m. Start of the Event by the Master of Ceremonies 7:55 a.m. Entrance of Neo-Panamax ship to the lower chamber 7:57 a.m. National Anthem of the Republic of Panama 8:00 a.m. Ascent of the ship in the lower chamber 8:00 a.m. Religious Invocation 8:04 a.m. Minute of Silence for workers deceased during construction 8:05 a.m. Welcome speech by the Panama Canal Administration (ship rises in the lower chamber) 8:10 a.m. Protocol greetings and speech by His Excellency Juan Carlos Varela Rodriguez, President of the Republic 8:20 a.m. Inauguration of Agua Clara Locks (the gates into the middle chamber open) 8:20 a.m. Artistic performance, local talent 8:30 a.m. Agenda and Touring of Authorities and Panama Canal Administration

9 INAUGURAL CEREMONY OF THE EXPANDED PANAMA CANAL PROVISIONAL PROGRAM SUNDAY JUNE 26, 2016 OFFICIAL EVENTS IN COCOLI LOCKS - PACIFIC SECTOR 10:00 a.m. Entrance of general public to the Cocoli Locks 3:00 p.m. Entrance of the last buses transporting public to the access route in Bridge of the Americas 3:30 p.m. Entrances to general public are closed 3:45 pm. Arrival of the Heads of State and/or Government and Heads of Reigning Houses 4:20 p.m. Line-up and entrance of Neo-Panamax ship (access channel to the locks) 4:25 p.m. Official Photo 4:30 p.m. Start of the Event by the Master of Ceremonies 4:35 p.m. National Anthem of the Republic of Panama 4:40 p.m. Line-up of the ship, approach wall 4:40 p.m. Religious Invocation 4:44 p.m. Minute of Silence for workers deceased during construction 4:45 p.m. Welcome speech by the Minister for Canal Affairs (ship rises in the upper chamber) 4:50 p.m. Entrance of the ship in the upper chamber and ascent 5:00 p.m. Greetings and speech by His Excellency Juan Carlos Varela Rodriguez, President of the Republic of Panama 5:10 p.m. Inauguration of Cocoli Locks (gates open into the middle chamber) 5:10 p.m. Artistic performance by local talent

10 5:40 p.m. Departure of Heads of State and/or Government and Heads of Reigning House to State dinner for (invitation by non-transferable card, which must be shown up at the entry of premises) 5:50 p.m. Departure of Special Guests to the cocktail 6:00 p.m. Departure of general public 6:30 p.m. Dinner hosted by His Excellency Juan Carlos Varela Rodriguez, President of the Republic of Panama, in honor of the Heads of State and/or Government and Reigning Houses 6:30 p.m. Cocktail hosted in honor of Members of Official Delegations which are not chaired by Heads of State and/or Government, or Reigning Houses 8:30 p.m. Departure of Heads of State and/or Government or Princes or Heads of Reigning Houses to the hotel or to airport for their departure from the country. 8:30 p.m. Departure of Special Guests arriving to the hotel or to airport for their departure from the country.

11 1. GENERAL INFORMATION ON THE REPUBLIC OF PANAMA Location Panama is located in the middle of the American Continent dividing it in two. It borders with Colombia to the East and Costa Rica to the West. It forms a natural isthmian bridge of 80 kilometers wide at its narrowest point joining the Atlantic Ocean in the North with the Pacific Ocean in the South. Weather It is 100 percent tropical with temperatures ranging between 26 and 30 Celsius throughout the year. There are two seasons, dry with sunshine from December to April and the rainy season from May to November. You can also enjoy temperatures of up to 12 and 15 Celsius in the highlands of the Province of Chiriqui, near the border with Costa Rica. Also in the Anton Valley and Cerro Azul, an hour and a half and 40 minutes away from downtown Panama City, respectively. Panama is located south of the areas of hurricanes and it is generally not affected by these natural phenomena. Surface, Coasts and Islands The Isthmus of Panama has an area of 75,517 square kilometers, with more than 1000 miles of coastline and 1000 islands in the Pacific and 800 miles of coastline and 600 islands in the Caribbean. Population The population is 4,037,043 inhabitants (projection to 2016) of which 50% is located in Panama City. 1

12 Language Spanish is the official language but a large proportion of the population is fluent in English. Religion The Panamanian population is primarily Catholic, but there is freedom of worship. There are other types of religions and beliefs, which are freely practiced in the country. Public Services Panama has a complete network of electrification, which covers the entire country. It has a sophisticated telecommunications system that includes among other cellular telephone, telex and cable. Water is perfectly drinkable, rated as one of the purest in the world and can be taken directly from the tap. Transport The transfer from Tocumen International Airport to downtown Panama City can be done using the Tourist Transport Service that offers two rates: a special rate of $20.00 per person with a maximum of two passengers and a collective rate of $24.00 with a maximum of three people. Local transport has a bus route system (METROBUS) and taxis circulating around the capital city. The taxi fares vary depending on the area where you want to go and do not exceed $2.50 per ride. To the outskirts can cost up to $ Foreign driver's license is valid up to 90 days, for tourists. Panama City has a metro line linking areas of San Miguelito with the Centre. The Line 2 of the METRO is currently under construction, departing from San Miguelito to East Panama. The bidding for the Line 3 of the METRO is due to be conducted in the near future, which will provide transportation to residents in the area of Arraijan and Chorrera. International transportation is excellent, because Panama reach the major airlines of the world as Air France, IBERIA, KLM, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, among others, constituting Tocumen 2

13 International Airport a major passenger distribution center. With the start of operations of EMIRATES, the cities of Dubai and Panama will be connected in a 17 hours non-stop flight, thus becoming the longest flight in the world. The rest of the country can be reach through the Pan-American Highway from Panama City to the border with Costa Rica, speed limit should not exceed 90km/h, in populated places speed must be reduced. The police officers provide security throughout this international route. Clothing In general, for a tropical climate, avoid dark colors. Wear light cotton clothing to be comfortable (a). If you plan to take walks around the city bring pants, appropriate shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. The highlands can be cold, so it is advisable to bring a sweater or light jacket. You must bring jacket or overcoats, in the event of drizzles. Type of government The Panamanian nation is organized as a sovereign and independent state, whose name is the Republic of Panama, with a unitary, democratic and representative government. His powers are represented by the Executive Branch which is headed by the President of the Republic assisted by a Vice-President (a) Ministers of State, the Judicial Body composed of the Justices of the Supreme Court and the Legislative Body composed of the National Assembly. The President and the seventy-one Deputies comprising the Assembly are elected by popular vote every five years. Composition of Government Juan Carlos Varela Rodríguez Isabel de Saint Malo de Alvarado Rodolfo Aguilera Marcela Paredes President of the Republic Vice-President and Minister of Foreign Affairs Minister of Public Security Minister of Education 3

14 Ramon Arosemena Alvaro Alemán Javier Terrientes Luis Ernesto Carles Augusto Arosemena Moreno Mario Etchelecu Jorge Arango Roberto Roy Alcibiades Vasquez Dulcidio de la Guardia Milton Henriquez Mirei Endara Gustavo Him Maria Celia Dopeso Administrative Divition Minister of Public Works Minister of the Presidency Minister of Health Minister of Labor and Workforce Development Minister of Commerce and Industry Minister of Housing Minister of Agricultural Development Minister for Canal Affairs Minister of Social Development Minister of Economy and Finance Minister of Government Minister of Environment General Manager of the Tourism Authority of Panama (ATP) General Manager of the Authority of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (AMPYME) Administrative division: Panama is divided into ten provinces (Panama, West Panama, Colon, Bocas del Toro, Chiriquí, Darien, Veraguas, Los Santos, Coclé and Herrera) and five indigenous regions (Kuna Yala, Emberá-Wounaan, Ngöbe-Buglé, Kuna de Wargandi and Kuna de Madungandi). Each province is divided into Districts that make up the municipalities and those in smaller administrative units are the townships. Social Indicators Income Per capita: US $ 11,800 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) US $ (World Bank 2014) Population density: 51 hab. x km² Fertility rate: 2.4 4

15 Life expectancy: Infant mortality: 78 years 15.9 (per 1,000 births) Literacy rate: 94% Minimum wage: B /. 624 (US dollars/month) Unemployment rate: 4.8% Consumer Price Index (CPI): 2.6% % of total foreign population: 7.4% Education expenditure (% of GDP): 3.5% Health expenditure (% of GDP): 5.5% 1.1 Panama "Hub of the Americas" Panama is considered the HUB of the Americas, the largest center for connectivity in the Americas, representing a high economic and tourism opportunity. Panama's experience in logistics, distribution of goods and tourism, with emphasis on trade is greatly projected through the Panama Canal Expansion and the Colon Free Zone. In addition, it allows to analyze trends and investment opportunities in Panama and observe its banking and financial model. Air connectivity of Panama, continues to attract the most important airlines in the world. This allows giving greater impetus to tourism in Panama and Central America, as the isthmus provides connectivity with other regions of the area. For the world economy, Panama is becoming a transfer hub for passengers and goods. History and geography have marked this fate. Tocumen International Airport has become an intercontinental terminal of the first world. A Proof of growth is that to this air terminal arrive about 5,900 weekly flights and 90 flight connections to 34 countries in America and Europe, with an efficient management that ensures the transfer of passengers in less than 45 minutes, one of the lowest in the world. 5

16 Become the Hub of the Americas as a connection platform between Panama and countless of countries around the world allowing direct transit of 8.5 million passengers in The benefits of this strategy will not only affect economic growth that it is generated but the thousands of jobs created as a result of the arrival of international flights. 1.2 Banking Center Banking in Panama has practically the same age of the Republic. Although before the separation of Colombia, some private banks already existed, experts believe that banking in Panama dates back to the beginning of our Republic with the opening of the International Bank Corporation, on August 17, 1904, is the direct antecedent of current system. In 1904 two major banks were created. The first, the International Bank Corporation, which changed its name to First National City Bank of New York, now Citibank, part of Citigroup, the largest financial conglomerate in the world and the second was the Banco Nacional de Panamá. The International Banking Center of Panama (CBI) was formally created in 1970 by Cabinet Decree No. 238, which reformed the banking system and created the National Banking Commission as the supervisory body. This Decree was in force until 1998 when it was replaced by Decree Law No. 9, which replaced the National Banking Commission with the Superintendence of Banks. Banking legislation continued evolving with improvements made to strengthen banking regulation activities, creating the new Banking Act of August 25, 2008, modified by Law 67 of 2011 and Law 12 of It is interesting to note that a particular feature of this bank legislation is that, in addition to establishing modern standards of comprehensive banking supervision and regulation, it has maintained the historical mission of being a promoting body of the advantages of our country as an International Banking Center. So our Superintendence of Banks, apart from being a banking regulator body, is also a promoter of Panama, something very peculiar to our legislation. Both missions have complied fully since the start of the Centre in 1970, as demonstrated in the following lines. 6

17 With just 111 years of existence, the national financial system has positioned itself as one of the strongest in the region. The 91 entities that make up the banking industry, today, provide employment to about 20 thousand people, including nationals and foreigners. The International Banking Center contributes 7.5% of gross domestic product (GDP) of Panama, which makes financial intermediation in the sixth activity that contributes most to Panamanian GDP. 1.3 Economic Profile From the economic point of view, the Panama Canal plays an important role in the generation of services and jobs. Too many people are employed in the Colon Free Zone and the International Banking Center and tourist activities. Panama is an enclave economy based largely on services. The tertiary sector of the economy is traditionally between 70 and 75% of the value of GDP. This is due to its unique development model, a direct consequence of the Canal and the monetary system that, under a treaty of 1904, establishes the use of the dollar as currency. Strong economic boom derived from both phenomena, since the end of World War II, linked to the intensification of "inward" trade and monetary policies in the Americas, which led to the creation of the Colon Free Zone (ZLC), in the late forties, and the National Banking Center (CBN), in the early seventies. The flag ship (first country worldwide in this activity), the particular company law and legal representation to foreign companies have formed to date a perfect complement to income levels from the Canal, the Colon Free Zone and the National Banking Center. However, although it seems a contradiction, a sector of modern services, open and strong generator of revenues, has been coexisting with closed and distorted primary and secondary sectors as those of the vast majority of Latin American economies. Panama has maintained for a long time a dual economic structure that policymakers try to break through the program of liberalization and modernization of the economy, the accession to World Trade Organization and the signing of several bilateral trade agreements. Panama is characterized as a net importer country with levels of production lower to the consumption which, in conjunction with a demanding public sector of some sectors such as: 7

18 health, pharmaceutical, equipment, and related public works services, makes Panama a strategic partner for international business. 1.4 Useful Information: Local Time: Electric current Taxes Tipping: Airport Tax: Schedule: GMT 110V and 240V available in hotels All purchases in Panama is levied at 7% of Tax om Transfer of Goods and Services (ITBMS), excepting from this measure medicines, food and school supplies. It is included in the bill in some restaurants. It is customary to give a 10% of the total amount consumed. For international commercial flights, airport tax is included in the cost of airfare. Businesses: 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. non-stop, Monday to Sunday. Banks: 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. ATMs are available to users 24 hours. Public offices: 8:00 am to 4:00 p.m. Important Phone numbers: International calls via operator: 106 Local Time: 105 Helpline: 102 Emergencies: 911 The area code for calls to Panama is 507. The national and international telephone service works 24 hours a day via operators of via MADI by direct dialing that is available to most countries. 8

19 1.5 Regional Logistics Centre for Humanitarian Assistance The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Panama carries out the development of the Regional Logistics Centre for Humanitarian Assistance or Humanitarian Hub which advances together with the Office of the United Nations for Project Services (UNOPS), and is located in the area of the Panama Pacific Airport. This is the first humanitarian hub in the region, which will incorporate emergency operations of various actors in one integrated modern logistics facility, which will operate 24 hours a day. The Humanitarian Hub will apply good international practices of security, logistics and sustainable infrastructure and will be an exemplary model of integration of sustainable design ideas, which will consider the efficient use of electricity, drinking water and rainwater harvesting. Users of these facilities are: the United Nations Humanitarian Response Depot (UNHRD), operated by the World Food Program (WFP); the Pan American Disaster Response Unit (PADRU), operated by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC); and the National Civil Protection System (SINAPROC). These players have the ability to deliver aid quickly, immediately and efficiently to the region in the event of natural disasters and catastrophes in the region. All deposits will be located in the Humanitarian Hub in Panama Pacific, if any country requests humanitarian aid to Panama through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this aid will be sent immediately to the scene of the disaster, which will respond immediately to the emergency. 2. BRIEF HISTORY OF THE PANAMA CANAL The Panama Canal, which was inaugurated on August 15, 1914, an important international waterway, is located at the narrowest point of the Isthmus of Panama, between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, it provides a short and relatively inexpensive waterway with effective inter-oceanic maritime communication among its users. 9

20 The History of the Panama Canal goes back to the first European explorers after the discovery of America. The strategic location of the Isthmus of Panama and the short distance between the oceans led to several attempts over the centuries to create a route across the Isthmus. Even though, most of the first projects consisted of a land route connecting the ports. The Isthmus of Panama was already used by Native Americans before the European invasion of the fifteenth century. The first European explorers discovered old ways that crossed the isthmus, used by pre-columbian civilizations and peoples Embera Wounaan and Ngäbe Bugle, now known by those names. A sea level canal that crossed the Isthmus had been a dream since 1513 when Vasco Nunez de Balboa, Spanish explorer discovered the Pacific Ocean. In 1534, King Charles V of Spain ordered the first studies for the construction of a canal through a section of the Isthmus. Although this idea did not materialize, the Spaniards built roads paved with gravel (stone) that served as a way to transport on the back of mules, tons of gold and silver from Peru to Spain and which traces can be seen today in Camino de Cruces. In 1880 the French commanded by the builder of the Suez Canal, Ferdinand de Lesseps, began construction of a canal through Panama, the company failed due to the Panamanian untamed nature. During the French construction period, two private companies were in charge of the excavations: The Universal Interoceanic Panama Canal Company Panama, from 1881 to 1888 and the New Panama Canal Company from 1894 to With the failure of the French, the Government of the United States of America assumes the construction work in 1904 and in 1914 the waterway was inaugurated. During this period, the Isthmian Canal Commission was in charge of the project. In 1914, the Isthmian Canal Commission was replaced by a permanent administrative entity, the Panama Canal. In 1951, the internal organization of the Canal was restructured with an 10

21 administrative and financial enterprise-class model named Panama Canal Company. With the signing of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties in 1977 and its entry into force in 1979, a new administrative stage of the Canal starts. At noon on December 31, 1999, His Excellency Mireya Moscoso, former President of the Republic, in a solemn ceremony receives full control of the Interoceanic Canal. On April 24, 2006, His Excellency Martin Torrijos Espino, Former President of the Republic, formally announced the proposal of the Expansion of the Canal and its navigational channel, by building a third set of locks. The work initiated on Monday, September 3, 2007, with the detonation of the Cartagena Hill located on the banks of the canal. On Sunday, June 26, 2016, His Excellency Juan Carlos Varela Rodríguez, President of the Republic will inaugurate the Panama Canal Expansion, with the transit of the first ship Neo-Panamax. 3. THE INAUGURAL CEREMONY OF EXPANDED PANAMA CANAL 3.1 General Event Information The Panama Canal expansion will open on June 26 with the transit of the first commercial cargo ship and a protocol ceremony to which approximately 70 heads of state and personalities of International Organizations are invited. At the moment it is unknown which ship will transit through the Expanded Canal. It has not been decided the ship that will have that privilege. It is not yet known how the shipping company will be chosen, whether by auction or through a raffle. In the morning of Sunday June 26, the ship will enter the water route across the Atlantic and will arrive to the Pacific in the afternoon, where the authorities of the country and all its guests will be waiting for. Panama invited to the ceremony to the Leaders of the countries of the Organization of American States (OAS), and Cuba and Heads of State of the countries that use the waterway most often. 11

22 Among the figures to be invited are King Felipe VI of Spain and other European monarchs and former US president Jimmy Carter, who in 1977 signed with the former Panamanian president Omar Torrijos, the treaties that allowed the transfer to Panama of the sovereignty of the waterway. United States built between 1904 and 1914 the Panama Canal and administered it until it reverted to Panama on December 31, The expansion works of the Canal, where 6% of world trade currently passes through, started in The expansion consists of a third lane where Neo Panamax ships with a capacity of up to 13,000 containers, almost three times the actual, and it has an initial total cost of 5,250 million dollars. 3.2 Invitations to the Inaugural Ceremony The missions led by Heads of State and/or Government and their spouses, Minister of Foreign Affairs and others. The accredited Ambassadors based in Panama will have their own invitation to the Inaugural Ceremony. The delegations should be accredited through to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, indicating the composition of the delegation in order of precedence. In order to identify each of the members of delegations, a credential will be issued that will allow access to areas where events of The Expansion will take place, for reasons of logistics, they must be delivered no later than Wednesday, May 25 of the current year. The accreditation form will be available online on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs ( 12

23 3.3 Official Precedence For the precedence, it will be considered the date of the note where it is communicated to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Directorate General of Protocol and State Ceremonial, the participation of the Head of State and/or Government, Head of Reigning Houses, and others, the Inaugural Ceremony and other official events. 4. VENUS WHERE THE INAUGURAL CEREMONY WILL BE HELD 4.1 Activities in the Atlantic Coast At dawn on June 26 of the current year, the Neo Panamax ship will line up and enter the Lower Chamber of Agua Clara Locks on the Atlantic Sector. This stage of the ceremony will be enlivened and escorted by bands of the National Police and the Meritorious Fire Department of Panama. Then the Master of Ceremonies will start the program with the glorious notes of the National Anthem of the Republic of Panama. The event continues with the religious invocation that will be in charge of Your Excellency Most Reverend Monsignor Manuel Ochogavía Barahona, O.S.A., Archbishop of the Diocese of Colón-Kuna Yala. Then, a minute's silence in memory of the workers deceased during the construction of the Canal, as a posthumous gratitude and recognition for their families. The Canal Administrator will lead the welcome speech to all participants, and His Excellency Juan Carlos Varela Rodríguez, President of the Republic, will thank everyone for attending the culmination act with which the Expanded Panama Canal starts its operations. At this time the ship rises in the Middle Chamber. Then, the Agua Clara Locks are inaugurated and the gates to the Upper Chamber are opened. Consecutively, these authorities will be touring the facilities with the Panama Canal Administrator. 13

24 4.2 Activities in the Pacific Coast Then, the National Government authorities, as well as authorities of Panama Canal Authority, are transported to the Pacific area, to start the Official Ceremony in which the Expanded Panama Canal is declared to be inaugurated. Between 10:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., the entry of the general public who are invited to the Inaugural Ceremony in Cocoli Locks will be permitted. After this time no entry to areas reserved for such purposes shall be permitted. Then, the entry of the Heads of State and/or Government, Heads of Reigning Houses and his companions in the number agreed previously (Format 1+2) will starts. The Heads of Delegations not chaired by Heads of State may enter the reserved box to participate in the Inaugural Ceremony (Format 1+1). In the same way with the Heads of Delegations of International Organizations (Format 1+1). After its crossing from Agua Clara Locks, the Neo-Panamax Ship approaches the access channel of Cocoli Locks. Before the start of the Official Ceremony, the Heads of State and/or Government, Heads of Reigning Houses attending, shall proceed to take the official photo (Location to be determined). The Master of Ceremony starts the program and announces the interpretation of the National Anthem of the Republic of Panama. At this time the ship heads towards the approach wall. Then, the religious invocation will proceed, which will be in charge of Most Reverend José Domingo Ulloa Mendieta, O.S.A., Metropolitan Archbishop of Panama. Then, a minute's silence in memory of the workers deceased during the construction of this mega work. Thereupon, the Minister for Canal Affairs will welcome everyone, as the ship rises to the Upper Chamber. The time is ripe for His Excellency Juan Carlos Varela Rodríguez, President of the Republic, to address his emotional words to all his guests and the Panamanian people. 14

25 The President of the Republic shall declare inaugurated the Canal Expansion, while opening the Cocoli Locks to make way for the ship to the Middle Chamber. Next, national artists shall perform various musical pieces to liven up the act and the audience. 4.3 State Dinner hosted by His Excellency the President of the Republic in honor of the Heads of State and/or Government, Heads of Reigning Houses Upon the finalization of this show, the Heads of State and/or Government, Heads of Reigning Houses will go to place where the State Dinner shall be hosted by His Excellency Juan Carlos Varela Rodríguez, President of the Republic of Panama. Only Heads of Delegations chaired by Presidents, or instead by Ministers of State, Presidents of Powers, Ambassadors shall attend the dinner. The other members of the delegations will have a cocktail in their honor in the adjacent area. We must recall that it has been contemplated for each Delegation a number corresponding to the formula 1+2, in the case of the Delegations chaired by Heads of State or Government. In the case of international organizations, the formula is 1+1. If it was the case that a Head of State is represented by its Ambassador, this formula will apply. 5. ACCOMMODATION 5.1 Official Delegations The host hotel for the accommodation of the Heads of State and/or Government, Heads of Reigning Houses, Foreign Ministers, Heads of Delegation, Special Guests and other members of the Official Delegations by country, will be the Westin Playa Bonita Hotel, Panama. The Hotel Committee will make the room reservation as follows: A suite room for each Head of Delegation chaired by the Head of State and/or Government, Heads of Reigning Houses and a room for the Minister of Foreign Affairs, in the event of his/her attendance. 15

26 If the delegation is headed by Vice Presidents of the Republic, Presidents of Powers, Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador on Special Mission with Full Powers, only the cost of one room will be covered. In addition each delegation can book rooms for other members of the delegation in the Host Hotel, which cost shall be borne by each participating country. 5.2 The host country will cover the costs of the Head of the Delegation The accommodation of Heads of State and/or Government, Heads of Reigning Houses, room + taxes, internet, breakfast and food, (President and First Lady in the case) from the day of arrival to departure. Note: The country will not cover expenses incurred for laundry services, spa, mini bar, barbershops, international calls, room service, so that the cost of the rooms not detailed in paragraph 5.1 shall be covered for each participating country. In that regard, the hotel shall request upon check in, to secure via credit card potential additional charges. 5.3 Accommodation for International Press Support may be provided by local hotels to provide members of the international press who visit us for this event, accommodation with favorable rates, without this meaning that they cannot be accommodated in other hotels of their choice. (See additional hotels recommended by the Hotel Committee, with special rates in the Annexes section). 5.4 Accommodation for Crew The accommodation of military or private aircraft crew, the payment shall be borne by the delegation. The Hotel Committee recommends for the crew due to proximity to the airports: Holiday Inn Hotel located in Clayton or the Tryp Panama located in Albrook, which are the closest to the Panama Pacific Airport and Albrook Airport. 16

27 Riande Continental Airport Hotel, closer to Tocumen International Airport. Presidential aircrew must manage reservations through their respective Embassies or International Organizations accredited in Panama and secure them via credit card. 6. TRANSPORTATION 6.1 Conditions of transportation offered by the Government of Panama to the Heads of State and/or Government, Heads of Reigning Houses Official delegations chaired by Heads of State and/or Government: One (1) vehicle for the Heads of State and/or Government, or to the Head of Delegation. If the Head of Delegation is accompanied by his Foreign Minister, an additional vehicle will be offered. If the Head of Delegation was a Vice President, President of Powers, Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador on Special Mission, General Director of Organisms, only one vehicle will be offered. The rest of the needs should be covered by the delegation, by the Embassy or Consulate in Panama. A circuit between the hotel and other point selected by the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) to Cocoli Locks on the day of the Inaugural Ceremony of the Expanded Canal will be provided Official aircraft, military or private flights It is advised that the officer of the diplomatic mission of the country's Head of State and/or Government, Head of Reigning Houses designated to support passport formalities, luggage, customs and press, is in the International Airport of arrival at least 1 hour prior to the arrival of the aircraft moving his/her delegation. 6.3 Arrivals of Heads of State to Tocumen International Airport It is the main international air terminal with a good Diplomatic Room, important for those countries whose Heads of State arrive on commercial flights. 17

28 The Heads of State who arrive at this airport aboard presidential, military or private aircraft may use the facilities of the old air terminal of Tocumen (cargo area), which has an excellent Presidential Hall. 6.4 Arrivals of Heads of State to Panama-Pacific Airport Official Airport for arrivals of participants to the Inaugural Ceremony of the Expanded Panama Canal has all the aviation facilities for the operation of large aircrafts. It has a very large parking area for aircrafts, waiting and reception rooms in excellent condition, with permanent immigration and customs staff, but their biggest advantage is that due of its low traffic, it can be used exclusively for welcoming honors (for the case, honors will be restricted) and can be physically segregated from other areas facilitating the security measures. This airport has designated areas for overnight stay of aircrafts, guarded by the security forces Over-flights and Landing Permits Over-flights and landing Permits of aircrafts with foreign registration must be handled directly with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Directorate General of Protocol and State Ceremonial, by submitting the form F2, completed with the data necessary for due process, which must attach the Note Verbale of the Embassy, which must be submitted no later than May 25, 2016 to protocolo@mire.gob.pa. You can get the form online through the Web site: Reception of Leaders in different terminals In order to provide support at the airport, a maximum of two (2) officials of the Diplomatic Mission and up to two (2) members of the presidential team may be present. Upon arrival of the aircrafts transporting the Heads of State and/or Government, to its final position on the platform, the Director General of Protocol and State Ceremonial, accompanied by the Ambassador of the respective country will board the aircraft, inviting the visiting Head of State and First Lady, in the event of her attendance, to descend. 18

29 For the reception, it is reiterated that the Honors will be given upon descending of the aircraft. The Director of Protocol shall introduce the Head of State to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, who in turn will introduce to other authorities that accompanies him/her. Then he invites him/her to walk towards the street of honor and to enter the Diplomatic or Presidential Hall, as applicable. 6.6 Departure of Heads of State in official, military or private flights The boarding will be through the Presidential Hall in case of Tocumen International Airport (Cargo Terminal) or the Diplomatic Hall of Panama-Pacific Airport immediately, the entourage first and the Head of State lastly, who will be sent off by the same authorities who welcomed them. In adverse weather conditions (rain), it may be decided to bring the motorcade directly to the stairs of the aircrafts (without Honors). 6.7 Departure of Heads of State in commercial terminals Luggage of the Head of State and/or Government and the rest of the Delegation, will be transferred to the airport in specially assigned vehicles, which will be at the hotel at least two (2) hours before the time set by the airline, for the start of proper registration. Members of the delegation should be at the counter of the company with travel documents for proper registration of luggage and other relevant procedures. The safety screening process of all luggage will be determined by the airline. It is recommended that the staff of the Diplomatic Mission appointed to assist in the processing of passport, luggage, customs and press, is at the airport with enough time before the departure and arrival of the Head of State at the Diplomatic Hall of Tocumen International Airport. 7. LUGGAGE The liaison of the Diplomatic Mission, responsible for luggage, will be assisted by a Liaison Officer appointed by the Organizing Committee - Airport Sub-commission, which will provide 19

30 support if the luggage claim of the delegation is necessary. The person in-charge of the luggage of the Delegation and liaison the Diplomatic Mission will be responsible for coordinating the unloading from the aircraft and accommodation of luggage in the vehicles. Elements and equipment transferred as luggage, may be admitted under special customs regime for which the Diplomatic Mission is requested to make the relevant communication, in order for the Organizing Committee- Airport Sub-commission to proceed with the procedure for authorizing temporary entry, issued by Customs, which must be signed and withdrawn at the airport by the responsible official that has been designated by the Embassy; likewise, prior to the departure from Panama, it must be returned in the same location, to cancel the referred authorization. To help the identification of the luggage of Heads of State and/or Government, First Ladies, Heads of Reigning Houses, Ministers of Foreign Affairs, the Organizing Committee will timely deliver the corresponding badges for luggage to the Missions based in Panama, and for those who are not based in Panama, they will be delivered to their respective turnouts. Each member of the Official Delegation and each Special Guest shall receive a sufficient number of Luggage Identification Cards to facilitate recovery procedures thereof in the air terminals of the Arrival Airports. Each delegation will receive the following cards to attach to luggage, as appropriate: Red: Presidents, Heads of State and Government and Princes of Reigning Houses; Blue: Vice-Presidents, Presidents of Powers (Legislative and Judicial), First Ladies; Foreign Ministers, Ministers of State, Vice-Ministers of State, Ambassadors on Special Mission, Special Envoys, Representatives of International Organizations; White: Members of Official Delegations, Special Guests, Official Press, Crew and Security. 8. LIAISON 8.1 Official Liaison 20

31 A Official Liaison will be designated for each of the delegations, whose main functions will be to permanently escort the Head of Delegation, and to channel requests among those responsible for organizing ceremonies and participating delegations, and address any issues related to accommodation, security, transportation, medical services, protocol and other support needs that arise Liaison of Diplomatic Missions Participating delegations should appoint a Liaison officer of his accredited mission in Panama, who will remain in permanent contact with the official liaison assigned by the Organizing Committee, in order to ensure efficient coordination with the participating delegation and solve any situation that arises. Likewise, it should also be responsible for luggage monitoring, along with the Official Liaison designated at the arrival gates and with the Liaisons designated at the host hotel, as well as to the respective departures. In cases where the visiting country has no representation in Panama, an official of the Subcommittee on Airports will attend these matters. 9. PRESS AND MEDIA TO COVER EVENTS 9.1 Guide to the official press All those journalists or photojournalists who are part of the delegations of the Heads of State and Government and have been accredited as such will be considered members of the official press The official press may use the same facilities that have been authorized for the national and international press, details of which can be found on the website In it, the Panama Canal Authority has made available a guide with information that will facilitate the coverage. 21

32 9.2 Access and times to provide coverage Photojournalists and journalists who are part of the official delegations will have access to all official acts corresponding to the inauguration of the Expansion of the Canal, in its two official venues: 1. Agua Clara Locks in the Atlantic Coast (Colón): As indicated in the official program at the beginning of this manual, the ship will sail from this lock in the morning and a small commemorative ceremony will be held. Members of the official press will have access to designated areas for coverage, but there will not be special access since the official delegations will not participate in this first act. 2. Cocoli Locks in the Pacific Coast (Panama). The event to be held at the Cocoli Locks will count with the participation of the Heads of State and Government, official delegations and special guests. In addition to the specifications in the press instructive available on the website members of the official press will have the following coverage facilities: Arrival of Head of State: the photographic and video coverage of the arrival of the Heads of State and/or Government and Heads of Reigning Houses will be allowed. Only photographers and cameramen may enter the waiting area enabled for the Leaders and official delegations Official photo and inaugural program: A special area has been allocated for photographers and cameramen from the official press, in front of the main stage where the official ceremony will be held and where the Heads of State and Government will be located. The official photo may be taken from this area, as well as the coverage of the inaugural program of the Expansion of the Canal. Please note that, while it is allowed to access this special area after coverage of the arrival of Leaders, no space shall be reserved for any member of the official press, they should be placed in order of arrival (there will be access to some national press and international, but the official press will have preference). State Dinner: only members of the official press will have access to take pictures and video of the Dinner hosted by His Excellency Juan Carlos Varela Rodríguez, President of the Republic of Panama, in honor of the Heads of State and/or Government and Reigning Houses. The entry of photographers and cameramen will be made per shift and only at the beginning of dinner. Press officers of the Government of Panama will be guiding the entry and exit. 22

33 9.3 Media transportation While the Government of Panama recommends that members of the official press move inside the capsules, with their official delegations, we will have several buses available for transportation to and from the locks of Agua Clara and Cocolí. The route and schedule will be announced in the days before the event. 9.4 News Liaisons Press liaisons will be appointed to each of the official delegations, whose mission is to facilitate coverage of events in which its Heads of State and/or Government are participating. The liaisons will be announced during the previous weeks with the contact information in order to resolve doubts, make comments and/or obtain more information about the event prior to their arrival in Panama, 9.5 Media Accreditations Members of the official press must be duly accredited as such, to ensure their access to coverage areas, especially those where official delegations participate, and the use of hedging facilities (press room, transportation, etc.). 9.6 Coverage of the arrival of Leaders to the airport The Panama Pacific Airport has been earmarked as the official airport, and facilities for coverage of the arrival of the Leaders at the airport on June 25 and 26 will be given. Namely: Stage for photojournalists with a tent Audio and Lighting Press Center with Internet Area for mobile units Drinks and snacks at set times 23

34 Contact information: Phone: MIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTERING PANAMA We will describe the types of visas requested by the immigration authorities of the Republic of Panama to all visitors. These depend on the country of origin of the person, a table with countries of origin and types of visas required for each is attached. It is advisable to check in advance with the relevant authority, whether Panamanian consulates, airlines, immigration authorities in the country of origin on this issue Types of Visas (see Annex) Authorized Visas (VA) It is the one that has to be requested by those citizens of countries that for reasons of immigration policy require prior authorization of the National Immigration Service to enter the country. This authorization is requested from their respective countries, at the Consulate of Panama. It must meet all the requirements of migration and if they approve the visa, it will be notified to the respective consulate to stamp the visa in the passport and the person may travel to Panama. In this visa, the foreigner must specify whether the visa is a tourist visa, time of stay in our country and in case of other reasons, it must be clearly stated on the form, so that migration has all backgrounds and have more arguments to grant the visa. Applications for authorized visas may require a longer period of time from the minimum of 30 days up to two months since these are visas reviewed with the security sectors Stamped Visa (VE) This visa does not require the prior authorization of the National Immigration Service, but must be requested before the Consul of Panama in their country. This tourist visa is always valid for the time determined by law, which for some countries is up to six (6) months Tourist Card 24