President Ma Ying-jeou and Mrs. Ma attended ceremonies inaugurating the new President of the Republic of Panama Ricardo Alberto Martinelli Berrocal on the afternoon of July 1 (early morning of July 2, Taipei time). The president, on behalf of the government and people of the ROC, extended his congratulations to President and Mrs. Martinelli.
The inauguration ceremonies were held at the Atlapa Convention Center in the Panamanian capital of Panama City. President Martinelli received a sash from the President of the National Assembly, symbolizing that he now holds power. After the ceremony, President Martinelli delivered his inauguration address. Prior to entering the venue, President Ma and Mrs. Ma exchanged greetings with the new president and vice president, as well as 10 heads of state, deputy heads of state, and heir apparents attending the events. President and Mrs. Ma and the other dignitaries then boarded vehicles that took them to the Atlapa Convention Center.
After the conclusion of the ceremonies, a Panama protocol officer escorted President and Mrs. Ma to see President and Mrs. Martinelli. President Ma extended his congratulations to the new Panama head of state on behalf of the government and people of the ROC. Once all the dignitaries were able to offer their congratulations, President and Mrs. Ma, the other heads and deputy heads of state, and royalty were transported to the Presidential Palace to attend a state banquet held by President and Mrs. Martinelli.
In the evening, President and Mrs. Ma walked from their hotel to the Islas Hall at the Atlapa Convention Center to attend a reception to celebrate President Martinelli's inauguration. The ROC's Ju Percussion Group performed during the reception.