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In another move to establish Panama as a regional center for the green economy, Panama recently became the first Latin American country to agree to follow a United Nations clean water initiative.

Panama has agreed to adhere to the UN’s “Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and of the International Lakes (Water Convention), which is designed to support the sustainable use of transboundary water resources through cooperation across borders. In essence, the agreement helps establish frameworks and priorities for governments to work together on water issues.

“Panama is committed to promoting a blue and green economy through the sustainable use of natural resources,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Janaina Tewaney Mencomo, according to coverage in El Capital Financero. “The protection of the environment is a priority for Panama. Our accession to the Water Convention is a crucial commitment that reaffirms our leadership as a blue and green country at the global level.”

Beyond the importance of ensuring the protection of clean water, the initiative serves as another example of Panama working to establish itself on the leading edge of the new economy built around sustainability and alternative energy. And the government is clearly working to link strong sustainability positions with a strong, resilient economy. The focus on green initiatives will help drive Panama’s growth for the next generation.

In the case of the UN effort, water is essential for industry, agriculture, transportation and navigation, drinking water supply, hydroelectric production, fishing, tourism, and environmental services. The Water Convention will provide “a legal framework and an institutional platform to drive much-needed progress in transboundary water cooperation in the region,” UNECE Executive Secretary Olga Algayerova told reporters.