PANAMA CITY, Panama.- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will make a surprise visit to Panama to talk about Venezuela and Nicaragua, according to his spokesperson, although the Panamanian Chancellery said it is to reaffirm the strong bilateral ties.

The official communication from Panama said the space will be conducive to reaffirming the strong ties uniting the two nations, with a broad agenda focused on security, trade, educational and cultural exchange, among others.

The source confirmed the interview with President Juan Carlos Varela, and Vice-President Isabel de Saint Malo, informed earlier by the State Department, which said they will discuss regional priorities, including defending democracy in Venezuela and Nicaragua.

According to the strict rules for journalistic coverage, Pompeo will keep distance with journalists, as no statement is planned.