The White House press office on Thursday said that U.S. President George W. Bush is set to welcome the President of Panama this month. Bush will welcome President Martin Torrijos to the White House on May 6, 2008 for a visit that “underscores the strong and deep friendship and cooperation between the United States and Panama.” The White House press release said that “Panama is an important friend and ally of the United States,” and that Bush “looks forward to discussing a range of issues with President Torrijos.” The two leaders are set to discuss their “common commitment to the United States-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement, expanding free trade in the hemisphere and globally, strengthening democracy and economic development throughout the region, enhancing security cooperation, and strengthening cooperation in international for a,” the press release said.