Source: US State of Missouri
Governor Mike Kehoe announced today that he will lead a Missouri delegation to the Republic of Panama, August 5-8, to celebrate 30 years of the Missouri National Guard’s partnership with Panama, as well as promote the state as a prime destination for global business investment and expansion.
“We are proud to celebrate 30 years of military partnership with Panama and the dedicated service of the brave men and women of the Missouri National Guard,” said Governor Kehoe. “During this trade mission, we will strengthen relationships with key international partners and showcase Missouri’s strengths, competitiveness, and capacity for partnership and trade directly with government officials, diplomats, and business leaders.”
Governor Kehoe will meet with government officials and diplomats in addition to visiting Missouri National Guard service members who are participating in a multinational exercise, PANAMAX, focused on the security of the Panama Canal and region through joint, combined, and interagency operations. The Governor will also participate in a tour of the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal.
Delegation meetings will include visits with the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Panama Kevin Marino Cabrera, Panama Minister of Commerce and Industry Julio A. Moltó A., Panama Minister of Agricultural Development Roberto José Linares Tribaldos, and Panama Minister of Canal Jose Ramon Icaza.
Governor Kehoe will be joined on the trade mission by Major General Charles D. Hausman – Adjutant General of the Missouri National Guard (MONG), Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) Director Michelle Hataway, Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) Director Chris Chinn, as well as additional members of the Missouri National Guard and economic development partners.
“For more than three decades, the Missouri National Guard has worked side by side with our partners in Panama through the State Partnership Program,” said MONG Adjutant General Hausman. “This long standing relationship helps both our nations grow stronger by building skills, sharing expertise, and preparing together for the challenges we face. It’s a partnership that not only strengthens readiness but also deepens the trust and cooperation that are essential in today’s world.”
Since 1996, the Missouri National Guard has participated in a State Partnership Program (SPP) with Panama. The SPP supports the United States’ security cooperation objectives by developing relationships with partner countries and carrying out activities to build capacity. The program also improves interoperability while increasing the readiness of U.S. and partner forces to meet emerging challenges.
Consistent with Governor Kehoe’s economic development priorities, the delegation will work to attract future investment from prospective companies and promote Missouri’s strong capacity for trade.
“This trade mission to Panama reflects our commitment to expanding Missouri’s global reach, strengthening international partnerships, and opening new markets for Missouri-made products,” said DED Director Hataway. “By connecting our businesses with international buyers and investors, we are creating opportunities that support growth, encourage investment, and ultimately help more Missourians prosper.”
Panama is a key trade partner for Missouri, with $17.7 million in exports in 2025, and the top exports including food products, machinery, chemicals, and transportation equipment.
“Increasing trade opportunities for agriculture products is critical for Missouri farmers and ranchers,” said MDA Director Chinn. “The nation of Panama is an emerging market and offers tremendous potential for Missouri producers of both raw and value-added products.”
During Governor Kehoe’s absence, Lieutenant Governor Wasinger will serve as Acting Governor, allowing him to exercise certain gubernatorial powers with written consent of the Governor.
The Governor’s participation in trade missions is funded by the Hawthorn Foundation, a Missouri nonprofit organization that supports the work of the Missouri Partnership and its mission to attract new businesses to the state.
For updates on the trade mission, follow Governor Mike Kehoe on Facebook and @GovMikeKehoe on X.