His country's flag has been flown upside down.

When flags  have symmetrical patterns and no images, the toggles or clips that attach them to the hoisting ropes ensure that they are flown correctly.But others, like that of Panama, are not symmetrical. To fly them upside down
( a sign of distress at sea) is an affront on land.

You should have checked beforehand through Web Diplomat, reference books, your Government's  protocol office or the Panamanian Embassy. The flag should be flown as  shown below:

Difference are more difficult to spot with the flags of some other countries e.g. the United Kingdom (below), but  VIP's are very alert to them.

  Correct (broad white                             Incorrect
        white diagonal stripe to the top at the staff)