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  28   STRATEGY
ECONOMY
 As someone who long ago perceived the benefits of alliance, Stanley Motta has relied consistently on the theme that defines Panama—connectivity.The chairman of Copa Holdings, Motta is in a unique position to appreciate how that connectivity works to Panama’s advantage. He sees the many factors that have contributed to the success of Panama, but he also understands that the country’s commitments to education and corporate social responsibility are competitive benefits that will buttress its future achievements.
Location, connection,
Sand synergy
omeone once told Motta that people can build companies, but they cannot build geography.
Because of Panama’s strategic location, the nation has been able to capitalize on linking not just oceans but also continents—by air. This advantage has led to growth for Panama and the region. Motta observes, “There is a direct connection between what we do and what happens in the rest of the world. We buy engines from one country, planes from another, and we fly passengers to still other countries, where they contribute to trade and tourism, thereby producing additional jobs.”
Stanley Motta
Chairman Copa Holdings
One area for growth exists in moving goods overland to reach the canal. Although the ports are quite sophisticated, the system for getting exports from the rest of Central America to Panama is not. Motta believes that Panama’s connectivity can take another step as more overland routes are created throughout the region.
MA social framework
otta is passionate about the role of education in Panama’s future: “In Panama, education
is not just a social priority, it is an economic necessity.” An educated workforce is a requirement to attract multinational corporations. Though the Panamanian government offers numerous incentives to attract business, companies struggle to fill jobs, not because the work force is too small or unmotivated, but rather because candidates lack minimum skills. Improving the situation requires two components, according to Motta: “We must design a better school system, and we must convince our people that education is a priority.”
“What can we do for the future?” Motta asks. Rather than trying to solve pieces of the problem one at a time, there must be a “national agreement” regarding education, one that equals the attention
Potential for Continued Success
Panama’s success rests on several factors, but its future will rely on continued investment in education and commitment to corporate social responsibility.
 “There is a direct connection between what we do and what happens
in the rest of the world.”
 He goes on to explain that as “the airline industry is providing meaningful employment, it is getting more weight at the table.” The economic stimulus generated by air travel in turn invites governments to reinvest in the industry.
One of the most important drivers of the economy, however, is the Panama Canal. Even though the canal expansion will be complete in early 2016, business through the channel will not change overnight, cautions Motta. “You need to measure this through time,” he notes, pointing out that the number of ships transiting the canal is fairly stable; rather, it is the tonnage that is increasing over time because ships are getting larger.
and consensus accorded the canal. Many industries have soared. Now it is time for Panama’s education system to follow.
Equally important to Panama’s evolution as a participant in the global economy is its commitment to corporate social responsibility. “Businesses must conduct themselves in an ethical and transparent way that contributes to the health and welfare not just of business but also of society,” Motta declares.
Panama’s economic success has astounded the world over the last decade. With a continued focus on education and corporate social responsibility, this nation’s future may indeed be limitless.
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