President Donald Trump has sparked controversy by proposing the United States should reclaim control of the Panama Canal, citing alleged breaches of agreements by Panama. In stark contrast, President José Raúl Mulino of Panama has dismissed these suggestions, emphasizing the sovereignty of his country over the canal.
Trump's claims of exorbitant fees and a violation of agreements have intensified the diplomatic exchange between the U.S. and Panama regarding the control of the Panama Canal, Breitbart reported.
During recent interactions, President Trump issued executive orders and made significant statements related to the Panama Canal and international relations. Among these was his announcement about Secretary of State Marco Rubio's impending visit to Panama. This visit marks Rubio's initial international assignment, with a focus on addressing the issues concerning the canal.
Trump's claims regarding the Panama Canal's fees and operations have added tension to the already complex international relationship. The U.S. President has said that the canal, constructed by the United States over a century ago, represents a monumental engineering feat. Trump has labeled the transit fees imposed by Panama as "exorbitant" and a violation of prior agreements.
One of Trump's significant concerns is the perceived Chinese influence within the canal area. He has accused Panama of permitting Chinese influence, which contradicts the stipulations of the existing agreement. This accusation comes amid reports of Chinese language signs being present and then removed from the canal area.
In retaliation to Trump's intentions, President Mulino has restated Panama's stance on its ownership of the canal. Mulino emphasized Panama's unwavering sovereignty, rejecting any notion of negotiations over returning control to the U.S.
The opinions expressed by U.S. officials are not unanimous. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio seems to share President Trump's apprehensions, other international voices have joined the debate. Christian K. Caruzo from Breitbart News reported Rubio's alignment with Trump on the concerns over Chinese influence.
The escalating rhetoric prompted a formal response from Panama to the United Nations. In a letter to the UN Secretary-General, a Panamanian diplomat pointed to Article 2 of the UN Charter, underlining the need to refrain from force or threats against territorial integrity. This formal move highlights the seriousness with which Panama views Trump's statements.
President Mulino's response to the possibility of negotiations with the United States was firm. He has explicitly called the idea of returning the canal to the U.S. as "impossible," reinforcing Panama’s determination to maintain control.
Although Trump's rhetoric indicates a serious desire to retake control, logistical and diplomatic challenges abound. The complex history of the canal underscores the sensitive nature of any potential actions. As tensions simmer, the international community remains watchful. President Donald Trump expressed, "We built the Panama Canal 110 years ago. Think of it. The most expensive development we ever did, and really one of the wonders of the world. One of the great wonders of the world."
Trump has pointed out that his administration had not relinquished control to China, but to Panama. He mentioned that Panama had acted swiftly to remove Chinese language signs, but alleged that about 70 percent had already been erected. While Trump remains steadfast, seeking justification in Panama's alleged violations, Panama stands firm in opposition. Trump's assertion that Panama is willing to negotiate stands unstated by Panamanian officials.
The debate over the canal raises significant questions about international treaties and diplomacy. It showcases the friction between historical ties and current geopolitical realities. The world watches closely as Secretary of State Rubio's visit approaches, aiming to defuse mounting tensions.
As the situation unfolds, both nations are navigating the diplomatic implications of the stated intentions. While the U.S. articulates concerns over foreign influence, Panama defends its territorial rights emphatically. This complex issue underscores the delicate balance needed in international relations regarding historical bilateral agreements.
