Panamanian president Jose Raul Mulino and his first lady arrived this morning at Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam, a historical site symbolizing Vietnam's cultural development.

Mulino and his first lady received a guided tour of the areas within Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam, most notably the garden of steles for doctors of literature. In 1070, King Ly Thanh Tong ordered the construction of Van Mieu to worship Confucius and other revered scholars. In 1076, King Ly Nhan Tong established Quoc Tu Giam next to Van Mieu, which became Vietnam's first university.

Panamanian president Jose Raul Mulino and his first lady visit Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam on 6/10. *Photo: Giang Huy*

In 1484, King Le Thanh Tong decreed the erection of steles inscribed with the names of successful candidates to honor those who passed the imperial examinations at Van Mieu. UNESCO recognized the 82 doctor steles as a global documentary heritage.

The Panamanian president was also invited to beat the Thunder Drum and sign the guestbook during his visit.

As part of his official visit to Vietnam, the Panamanian president is scheduled to hold talks with General Secretary and President To Lam, meet Prime Minister Le Minh Hung, and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man.

Panamanian president Jose Raul Mulino and his first lady stand next to the Thunder Drum during their visit to Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam on 6/10. *Photo: Giang Huy*

Vietnam and Panama established diplomatic relations on 28/8/1975. Over the past 50 years, the two countries have strengthened and developed relations across many sectors.

Both sides have promoted bilateral trade and investment through promotional activities and business delegation exchanges, and enhanced cooperation in maritime transport, agriculture, education, and people-to-people exchanges.

Panamanian president Jose Raul Mulino and his first lady sign the guestbook during their visit to Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam on 6/10. *Photo: Giang Huy*

Panama consistently ranks among Vietnam's top 10 trading partners in Latin America. According to Customs Department data, bilateral trade turnover in 2025 exceeded 478 million USD, an increase of over 19% compared to 2024.

Ngoc Anh