Approval of the law that criminalizes tax fraud, ratification of the new Supreme Court judges and returning the new  Budget Law to the Executive are the issues that should be a priority in the extraordinary sessions of the National Assembly, according to Panama’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture.

"We recognize the importance of legislating and punishing tax evasion, as well as  revising the points indicated by international entities such as the Financial Action Group in this matter, so it is necessary that there is  full progress to have legislation in this area ready  at the end of the year, "said the business association in a bulletin issued on Sunday, November 24.

The Chamber also asks the Assembly to fulfill its role as a counterweight in the separation of public powers by assuming with responsibility the evaluation of the judges appointed by President Juan Carlos Varela, demanding suitability, merit, and independence.

"In an election year like the one that is coming, we must act with moderation, prudence and, especially, with a foresight that closes the way to the waste of available resources. That is a responsible vision of the country,” said the Chamber.