Early Life and Education
Laurentino Cortizo was born on January 30, 1953, in Panama City, Panama. He is the son of Laurentino Cortizo Cortizo and Esther Cohen de Cortizo. Cortizo attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned a degree in Business Administration. He later went on to earn a Master’s degree in Political Science from Norwich University and a Master’s degree in International Relations from St. Edward’s University.
Political Career
Cortizo began his political career as a member of the Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD) in Panama. He served as Minister of Agriculture during the administration of President Ernesto Pérez Balladares from 1994 to 1999. In 2019, Cortizo was elected as the President of Panama, defeating his opponent in a closely contested election.
Presidency
As President of Panama, Cortizo has focused on addressing issues such as corruption, poverty, and economic inequality. He has implemented policies to promote economic growth and create jobs for the people of Panama. Cortizo has also worked to improve healthcare and education in the country.
Family Life
Cortizo is married to Yazmín Colón de Cortizo, and together they have a daughter named Carolina Esther Cortizo. Family is important to Cortizo, and he often speaks about the values instilled in him by his parents.
Legacy
Cortizo’s legacy as President of Panama is still being written, but he is already making a significant impact on the country. His commitment to fighting corruption and improving the lives of the Panamanian people has earned him praise from both supporters and critics alike.
Challenges
As with any political leader, Cortizo faces numerous challenges in his role as President. From economic struggles to social unrest, Cortizo must navigate a complex political landscape to bring about positive change for his country.
International Relations
Cortizo has worked to strengthen Panama’s relationships with other countries around the world. He has focused on promoting trade and investment opportunities for Panama, as well as collaborating on issues such as climate change and security.
Achievements
During his time in office, Cortizo has achieved several notable accomplishments. From passing key legislation to implementing social programs, Cortizo has made strides in improving the quality of life for Panamanians.
Public Image
Cortizo is generally seen as a competent and trustworthy leader by the people of Panama. His commitment to transparency and accountability has helped boost his public image and garner support for his policies.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Cortizo has expressed his dedication to continuing to serve the people of Panama and address the challenges facing the country. He remains committed to his vision of a prosperous and inclusive society for all Panamanians.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Laurentino Cortizo is a dedicated politician who has made significant contributions to the development of Panama. His commitment to fighting corruption, promoting economic growth, and improving social welfare has earned him respect both at home and abroad. As he continues his presidency, it will be interesting to see how Cortizo’s leadership shapes the future of Panama.
