The peculiarity of a European Union diplomatic mission is that it does not represent one country, but a group of them. The European Union is not, as many believe, a international organisation similar for example to the United Nations or other regional bodies, but a unique case of delegation of powers or competences by EU Member States to common institutions. These delegated competences are expressed in common policies, for example in the field of trade, where the European Union has exclusive competence to negotiate, conclude and administer agreements with non-EU countries. 

The entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty on 1 December 2009 also triggered the launch of the European External Action Service (EEAS). This meant that the Delegations of the European Commission became Delegations of the European Union, with diplomatic mission status and an Ambassador who is the official representative of the European Union in the country. 
 
The European Union's external actions focus on diplomacy, economics and trade, development cooperation, support for democracy, defence of human rights, preservation of peace, international security, and rules-based international order, as well as common response to global challenges such as climate change.

• Representation of the European Union before the national authorities of Panama
• Promotion of political, economic and trade relations between Panama and the European Union through active contact with the government and other relevant actors
• Coordination with the Embassies of the EU Member States accredited in Panama, as well as with the representations of the European institutions in Panama
• Implementation of and information on European Union policies
• Monitoring and analysis of the political situation in Panama
• Monitoring of the implementation of the agreements between the EU and Panama, including the Association Agreement Central America-European Union
• Monitoring and support to the management of cooperation programmes and projects, as well as humanitarian aid through DG ECHO offices
• Collaboration with civil society organisations (universities, chambers of commerce, trade unions, NGOs, etc.)
• Promotion of trade, investment and intercultural exchanges between Panama and the European Union 
• Information about the European Union, its institutions, legislation and policies through our website, social media, media contact, publications and event organisation