H.E. Carlos Ruiz-Hernandez is the Former Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of the Republic of Panama to the United Nations (2009-2015), where he served as a trusted advisor to Panama’s Executive Branch on matters of foreign policy and international trade. While acting as the representation of Panama to the United Nations, Ambassador Ruiz-Hernandez also served as the Chief of Staff to the Secretary of State and Minister of Foreign Affairs. During his time at the UN, Ambassador Ruiz-Hernandez worked on issues such as human trafficking, human rights, international trade, and foreign policy issues in Panama and other Central American countries. He also has extensive experience working with the United Nations Security Council and United Nations Development Program (UNDP). Prior to joining the diplomatic ranks, Ambassador Ruiz-Hernandez was engaged in the practice of civil and corporate law in New Orleans, Louisiana, and in his native Panama. Ambassador Ruiz-Hernandez also worked as In-House Counsel for Cable & Wireless Panama LLP, the largest telecom company in Central America and the Caribbean.