Due to the possibility of violent protests throughout Panama City 
during morning rush hour, the Consular section, will delay its 
opening on Thursday, February 14 to 9:00 a.m. The demonstrations are 
in response to the killing of a member of Suntracs, a construction 
worker's union in the city of Colon.

For personal security and safety reason U.S. Citizens are therefore 
urged to avoid Punta Pacifica/Paitilla neighborhoods of Panama City 
and the area around the University of Panama where the demonstrations 
will occur.  By avoiding these areas you minimize risk and avoid 
turning yourself into a potential target as an innocent bystander.  
U.S. Citizens should also exercise additional caution at all times 
when moving around city.

For updated information on the security situation in Panama, please 
contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy at 
207-7000.  The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy is located in 
Building 783 (besides the Colegio de las Esclavas), in the Clayton 
section of Panama.   The Consular Section fax is 207-7278.   The 
Embassy web site is http://usembassy.state.gov/panama and e-mails 
should be address to Panama-ACS@state.gov.