Panama pledges support for Ecuador president

The government of Panama has issued a statement confirming its support for embattled Ecuador President Rafael Correa.

Vice President Juan Carlos Varela, who is in Washington, said that the members of the country’s police force who have attacked the president are attempting to “erode democratic institutions.”

The police rioted Thursday morning after the president eliminated bonuses. When Correa tried to meet with them, he was pelted with bottles and had to be evacuated.

Correa has taken refuge in a hospital and police have also closed the National Assembly of Ecuador.

Varela communicated with Ecuadorian Chancellor Ricardo Patiño to pledge Panama’s support for the government.

A statement from the government said that Panama respects Ecuador’s right to maintain public order within the framework of international commitments to human rights.