The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway in Panama that connects the Atlantic Ocean (via the Caribbean Sea) to the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the most significant engineering marvels in the world and serves as a critical shortcut for maritime trade, eliminating the need for ships to navigate the lengthy and treacherous route around the southern tip of South America (Cape Horn).

Panama is a transcontinental country in Central America and South America. The capital and largest city is Panama City. Panama's total area is 74,177.3 km2 (28,640.0 sq mi) with an estimated population of 4,176,869 in 2018.