Panama Canal: Mulino Rejects U.S. Talks, Trump Disputes | Latest
Is the Panama Canal, a vital artery of global trade, truly secure in Panamanian hands? President Jos Ral Mulino has unequivocally stated that the canal's ownership is non-negotiable, setting the stage for potential diplomatic friction with the United States.
In Panama City, the air is thick with the weight of history and the complexities of international relations. President Mulino, speaking on Thursday, firmly declared that there would be no negotiations with the United States regarding the Panama Canal's ownership. He expressed his hope that the upcoming visit of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio would allow both nations to concentrate on shared interests, including the pressing issues of migration and the critical battle against drug trafficking. This stance underscores Panama's unwavering commitment to maintaining control over the strategic waterway.
President Mulino's steadfast assertion that the canal will remain under Panamanian control is not a new development. He has repeatedly voiced this position, echoing the sentiment that has guided the country since it gained full control of the canal in 1999. This resolute stance is a testament to Panama's sovereignty and its determination to manage a facility that is essential to the world's shipping industry. Mulino's words carry the weight of national pride and a clear message to the international community: the Panama Canal belongs to Panama and its neutral status will be preserved.
Furthermore, the president expects to meet with Secretary Rubio, whose visit to Panama will be part of his inaugural international trip. This meeting holds significant importance as it provides an opportunity for both leaders to discuss bilateral relations and address areas of mutual concern. The discussions are likely to be frank, with the canal's status undoubtedly a key point of focus.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jos Ral Mulino |
| Date of Birth | December 28, 1959 |
| Place of Birth | Panama City, Panama |
| Political Party | Realizando Metas |
| Education |
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| Career Highlights |
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| Key Policies & Positions |
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| Reference | Presidencia de la Repblica de Panam |
On the same day, Secretary of State Rubio voiced his opinion that charging fees to the U.S. military for utilizing the Panama Canal was "absurd." This comment came in the wake of President Mulino's denial of a claim from the U.S. State Department, which suggested a deal had been struck to allow U.S. warships to transit the canal without cost. This disagreement highlights the ongoing friction between the two nations regarding the financial and operational aspects of the canal.
Adding to the complexities, President Mulino and Panama Canal Authority Administrator Ricaurte Vsquez are scheduled to welcome U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to Panama on April 8, 2025. This visit signifies the continued importance of the canal in U.S.-Panamanian relations and offers an opportunity for discussions regarding security and collaboration.
The situation further intensified when President Mulino took issue with the State Department's assertion that U.S. government vessels would be permitted to pass through the Panama Canal without incurring charges. This reaction demonstrates Panama's resolve to maintain its rights and responsibilities regarding the canal's operation and revenue generation.
The involvement of former U.S. President Donald Trump adds another layer to this complex narrative. President Mulino accused Trump of making false statements, specifically regarding his administration's alleged efforts to "reclaim" the Panama Canal. This accusation highlights the political sensitivities surrounding the canal and underscores the historical context of U.S.-Panamanian relations.
The origins of the current tensions trace back to President Trump, who, on Wednesday, was accused by President Mulino of spreading falsehoods during his address. This incident points to the underlying issues and political climate surrounding the canal's governance.
The echoes of past events resonate in the present. The transfer of the Panama Canal to Panamanian control was a gradual process, beginning with the 1977 treaty signed by U.S. President Jimmy Carter and Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos. The Panama Canal Authority took complete control in December. This historical backdrop provides essential context for understanding the current dynamics and the significance of the canal's sovereignty.
In a statement, the Secretary of State indicated that the United States might take action to "protect its rights." Panama's leader, however, expressed confidence that President Trump would not attempt to seize the canal, reflecting a level of reassurance amidst the disagreements.
Adding to the discourse, Panamanian President Jos Ral Mulino addressed the topic during a session on Latin America at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland. He stated unequivocally that "the canal belongs to Panama and will continue to belong to Panama," reaffirming his country's commitment to maintain control.
Historically, the governor served as an ex officio director and president of the Panama Canal Company, an American corporate entity tasked with maintaining the canal efficiently. U.S. military forces were stationed in the canal zone to ensure the waterway's operation in the event of conflict. The presence of the U.S. military highlights the canal's strategic importance and the historical involvement of the United States in its management.
President Mulino's recent remarks accused President Trump of dishonesty, specifically regarding the claim that his administration sought to "reclaim" the Panama Canal. This verbal clash demonstrates the political undercurrents at play and the sensitive nature of the canal's ownership.
The Panamanian leader has also dismissed the idea that the country will relinquish control of the Panama Canal, reinforcing its unwavering commitment to its sovereignty over the vital waterway. Furthermore, he has stated that the sale of a Chinese company's port operations to a U.S. firm doesn't amount to retaking the waterway.
The Neutrality Treaty and the Panama Canal Treaty are essential components of the historical framework of the canal's operation. The first treaty, the Neutrality Treaty, allows the U.S. military to defend the canal's neutrality, and the second, the Panama Canal Treaty, outlines the terms of the canal's transfer. These agreements establish the foundation for U.S. involvement and cooperation in the region.
The ongoing debate includes conflicting assertions and clashing viewpoints from the U.S. and Panamanian leaders, which adds fuel to the situation. Trump's initial suggestion that the United States should take over the Panama Canal was made in a TruthSocial post on December 21. He subsequently discussed the issue with a crowd, indicating the rising importance of the topic.
Panama has invested heavily in the canal's infrastructure, spending nearly $6 billion to improve infrastructure and expand shipping capacity. This is an investment in expanding worldwide use and highlights the nation's commitment to maintaining the canal's prominence in global trade.
The Panama Canal wasn't a major topic during the 2024 election. The former U.S. President Trump had begun claiming that the U.S. was "being severely" affected, which further complicated the situation.
This ongoing situation underscores the need for diplomacy and constructive dialogue to protect the Panama Canal's vital role in global trade. It also emphasizes the necessity for transparency and cooperation between the United States and Panama. The focus will be on managing these challenges for the canal's continued success, the security of international commerce, and the strength of U.S.-Panamanian ties.
The leader's agenda and the Panamanian government's policies also highlight the complex relationship between the two countries. The shared goals are key to building understanding and finding solutions.
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