The UK Foreign Secretary William Hague met President Martinelli of Panama and discussed with him a number of areas of bilateral cooperation, including security issues. \"The UK and Panama have an increasingly close bond, based on mutual respect and shared values, such as a commitment to free and open trade. The UK is the largest investor in Panama and a number of high-profile companies have operations in Panama City,\" Hague said. \"We discussed a number of areas of bilateral cooperation, including security issues. Panama is one of our strongest partners in Latin America on tackling organised crime. We also discussed regional politics and trade issues, as the UK values Panama\'s views as a trusted partner in Latin America and a growing regional financial and commercial centre. We will continue to work together on a wide variety of issues to the benefit of the peoples of both our countries.\"