In a recent news conference, tensions arose as Trump's remarks about the Panama Canal's operation sparked outrage in Panama. The relationship between the U.S. and Panama is once again being scrutinized, echoing historical events from decades past and challenging diplomatic channels.
Panama Asserts Sovereignty Over Canal Amid Trump's Controversial Comments
Panama Asserts Sovereignty Over Canal Amid Trump's Controversial Comments
Panama’s Foreign Minister declares the sovereignty of the Panama Canal as "non-negotiable" in response to President-elect Trump's comments on military action for control.
Panama has firmly maintained its sovereignty over the Panama Canal after remarks by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump ignited controversy regarding potential military intervention to reclaim control. During a recent conference, Trump mistakenly claimed that the canal was run by "Chinese soldiers" and labeled the transfer of control back to Panama as a "big mistake." This statement comes just after Panama celebrated the 25th anniversary of the canal's handover.
Javier Martínez-Acha, Panama's Foreign Minister, swiftly refuted Trump's declarations, asserting, "The only hands operating the canal are Panamanian and that is how it is going to stay." He underscored that Panama has not received any offers related to the canal, countering Trump's insinuation of financial negotiations. The canal was relinquished to Panama in 1999 under a treaty by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and has been a symbol of sovereignty for the nation.
Panama's President José Raúl Mulino has not formally addressed Trump's comments, but he has previously expressed frustration over the misrepresentation of the canal's international connection, especially regarding alleged Chinese influence. During the anniversary celebrations, Mulino reaffirmed that the canal would "stay in our control forever."
Both the foreign minister and the president conveyed a dedication to maintaining stable relations with the U.S., emphasizing that while the current administration is led by Joe Biden, they will engage with Trump once his presidency begins. Overall, Panama's leaders made it clear that any form of military or economic coercion from the United States regarding the canal would not be entertained.
Javier Martínez-Acha, Panama's Foreign Minister, swiftly refuted Trump's declarations, asserting, "The only hands operating the canal are Panamanian and that is how it is going to stay." He underscored that Panama has not received any offers related to the canal, countering Trump's insinuation of financial negotiations. The canal was relinquished to Panama in 1999 under a treaty by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and has been a symbol of sovereignty for the nation.
Panama's President José Raúl Mulino has not formally addressed Trump's comments, but he has previously expressed frustration over the misrepresentation of the canal's international connection, especially regarding alleged Chinese influence. During the anniversary celebrations, Mulino reaffirmed that the canal would "stay in our control forever."
Both the foreign minister and the president conveyed a dedication to maintaining stable relations with the U.S., emphasizing that while the current administration is led by Joe Biden, they will engage with Trump once his presidency begins. Overall, Panama's leaders made it clear that any form of military or economic coercion from the United States regarding the canal would not be entertained.
