Panama President Mulino Denounces Trump’s False Panama Canal Reclamation Claim
Panama President Jose Raul Mulino has strongly rejected claims made by US President Donald Trump that Washington is reclaiming the Panama Canal. Mulino responded firmly, calling Trump’s statement a blatant lie and asserting that Panama has full sovereignty over the strategic waterway.
During a speech to Congress, Trump declared that the United States was taking back the Panama Canal to bolster national security. His assertion was linked to the recent acquisition of a Chinese company’s port operations by a US firm, which he suggested was part of a broader effort to regain control of the canal. However, Mulino emphasized that the deal was strictly a private transaction and had no bearing on Panama’s governance of the canal.
Panama Rejects Trump’s Statement
Mulino took to social media to express his strong disapproval, stating that Trump’s remarks were misleading and an affront to Panama’s sovereignty. He reiterated that Panama maintains full control over the canal and that no external power was in the process of reclaiming it.
He further stressed that the deal involving BlackRock Inc. purchasing assets from CK Hutchison Holding was unrelated to the management of the canal. The agreement involves the sale of port operations but does not transfer ownership or authority over the waterway itself. Panama’s government will still need to approve the sale, ensuring it aligns with national interests.
Trump’s comments have sparked controversy, particularly as he has repeatedly criticized past US decisions regarding the canal. He has suggested that the US should have never relinquished control to Panama, describing the handover as a mistake. However, historical agreements ensure that Panama remains the sole governing authority over the canal.
Historical Context of the Panama Canal
The Panama Canal was constructed by the United States in the early 20th century, significantly enhancing global trade by connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. In 1977, US President Jimmy Carter signed the Panama Canal Treaty, agreeing to transfer control to Panama by the end of 1999. This transition was completed as planned, with Panama assuming full responsibility for canal operations on December 31, 1999.
Since then, Panama has successfully managed the canal, ensuring its efficiency and economic benefits. The waterway facilitates approximately 5% of global maritime trade and handles a substantial portion of US-bound cargo. The canal’s significance has made it a focal point of geopolitical discussions, particularly regarding foreign influence.
US Concerns Over Chinese Influence
Trump’s assertion about reclaiming the canal also stems from long-standing concerns regarding China’s economic activities in Latin America. Some US officials have argued that China exerts undue influence over Panama’s trade and infrastructure. However, both Panama and China have denied such claims, maintaining that their economic partnerships are based on mutual benefit without political interference.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently met with President Mulino to discuss concerns regarding China’s role in the region. Despite these discussions, Panama remains firm in its stance that it has complete control over the canal and its surrounding infrastructure.
Political and Economic Implications
Trump’s remarks come at a critical time in international relations, as tensions between the US and China continue to rise. The sale of CK Hutchison Holding’s port operations to BlackRock Inc. may be seen as a strategic move to reduce Chinese economic influence in Panama. However, Panama insists that the sale does not change the country’s sovereignty over its key assets.
Panama has emphasized that its primary focus remains on managing the canal efficiently and maintaining strong international trade relations. Any changes in port operations must align with Panama’s national interests, ensuring continued economic growth and security.
Conclusion
Panama’s rejection of Trump’s claim underscores the country’s firm stance on maintaining its sovereignty over the canal. President Mulino has made it clear that no foreign entity, including the United States, is in the process of reclaiming the waterway. As geopolitical tensions evolve, Panama remains committed to overseeing one of the world’s most important maritime routes independently.
The canal will continue to be a vital trade corridor, with Panama ensuring its strategic and economic value is preserved. Any private business transactions will be subject to Panama’s approval, reinforcing its authority over the canal’s operations and surrounding infrastructure.
Panama’s firm response to Trump’s statement reaffirms its sovereignty, ensuring that global trade through the Panama Canal remains uninterrupted and under Panamanian control.
