The Government of Panama has formally conveyed its profound sympathies to Switzerland in the aftermath of a catastrophic fire that struck the Alpine nation. In an official communiqué released by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Central American republic expressed its deepest condolences to the Swiss Confederation’s government and its citizens.
The statement articulated a message of solidarity, noting that Panama stands united with Switzerland during this period of profound grief. The Panamanian government also extended its heartfelt sympathies to the families who lost loved ones and all those impacted by what it described as a ‘tragic event’ and ‘irreparable loss.’
The incident, which unfolded in the canton of Valais on December 31st, involved a devastating blaze that consumed a bar densely packed with revelers celebrating the New Year. Swiss authorities have characterized the event as one of the most severe tragedies in the country’s modern history.
While the investigation remains ongoing under the direction of the public prosecutor’s office, preliminary findings suggest an accidental cause. The leading hypothesis indicates the fire originated within the venue, potentially triggering a subsequent explosion. Law enforcement officials have reportedly dismissed theories of a deliberate attack, instead focusing the inquiry on mishaps related to the evening’s celebrations. The human toll remains severe, with a significant number of the injured still listed in critical condition.