Acting Chief of Mission Philip Laidlaw Departs Post
Acting Chief of Mission Philip Laidlaw departed Panama on Wednesday, ending his six-month assignment as interim Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy. Chargé Laidlaw led the Embassy through the challenges of the COVID-19 outbreak and subsequent pandemic, working diligently to ensure the safety of U.S. citizens and to support Panama’s efforts to manage the health crisis. He will be detailed to U.S. Special Operations Command in Florida where he will serve as Political Advisor.
“While I have not been able to enjoy much of Panama’s beautiful scenery in this brief time, I have been able to experience first–hand the essence of the strong friendship between Panama and the United States. I am inspired by the shared values that unite us, and our mutual commitment to work together in preserving those values and making the region a safer place,” stated Chargé Laidlaw.
“I am proud of the support we provided Panama during this time, including over one million dollars in health-related assistance ranging from masks for front-line workers to institutional assistance to strengthen the capacity of the health care system. This support has provided short-term relief and will also yield results that will benefit Panamanians for years to come.”
The U.S. Embassy in Panama will welcome its new Deputy Chief of Mission, Stewart Tuttle, in August , who will act as Chargé d’Affaires, ad interim, until the arrival of a new Ambassador. Until Chargé Tuttle’s arrival, the U.S. Embassy will be under the leadership of Ryan Rowlands, as Acting Chief of Mission.