Panama’s President Rejects Trump’s Call to Regain Control of the Panama Canal
In a bold response to President Donald Trump’s inauguration speech, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino firmly asserted Panama’s sovereignty over the Panama Canal. Trump’s remarks, which suggested the U.S.should “restore” control of the canal, sparked a diplomatic exchange that underscores the past and economic importance of this vital waterway.
Mulino took to X (formerly Twitter) to address Trump’s comments, stating, “The Panama Canal belongs to Panama and will remain so.” He emphasized that the canal “will remain under it’s control and with permanent neutrality,” highlighting Panama’s commitment to managing the canal responsibly for global trade, including the united States.
Trump’s inauguration speech, though, painted a different picture. He claimed that the U.S. had been “treated very poorly” by the canal’s transfer to Panama,calling it a “gift” that “should never have been given.” He further argued that “the purpose of our agreement and the spirit of our treaty have been wholly violated,” accusing Panama of failing to fulfill its promises.
The Panama Canal, a cornerstone of global maritime trade, has long been a point of contention between the two nations. The U.S. originally constructed the canal in the early 20th century, but control was transferred to Panama in 1999 under the torrijos-Carter Treaties. Since then, Panama has successfully operated the canal, turning it into a lucrative enterprise that facilitates approximately 6% of global trade.
Mulino’s response reflects Panama’s determination to maintain its sovereignty over the canal,which he described as a duty to the world.“Panama ran the canal out of a sense of responsibility towards the world and trade, including America,” he said.
The exchange has reignited debates about the canal’s history and its role in U.S.-Panama relations. Trump’s claims about the canal’s construction, including the assertion that it cost 38,000 American lives, have been scrutinized for accuracy. According to fact-checkers, the actual death toll during the canal’s construction was considerably lower, with most fatalities occurring among non-American workers.
As tensions simmer, the Panama Canal remains a symbol of national pride for Panama and a critical artery for global commerce. Mulino’s firm stance signals that Panama will not relinquish control of this strategic asset, even in the face of pressure from the U.S.
| Key Points | Details |
|—————–|————-|
| Trump’s Claim | The U.S. should “restore” control of the Panama Canal, citing unfulfilled promises. |
| Mulino’s Response | “The Panama Canal belongs to Panama and will remain so.” |
| Historical Context | Control transferred to Panama in 1999 under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties. |
| Economic Impact | The canal facilitates 6% of global trade, generating meaningful revenue for Panama. |
The future of U.S.-Panama relations may hinge on how both nations navigate this contentious issue. For now, Mulino’s message is clear: the Panama Canal is, and will remain, Panamanian.What are your thoughts on this diplomatic standoff? Share your opinions in the comments below.
President Mulino vs. Trump: The Panama Canal Feud Unfolds
A diplomatic powder keg has reignited as Trump’s inauguration sparked an intense discussion on the status of the iconic Panama Canal, leading to fiery rebuttals from Panamanian President, José Raúl Mulino. World-Today-News.com was lucky enough to have Dr. Isabella Vasquez, a Latin American relations specialist, share her insights on the issue.
>Dr. Vasquez, as we navigate these heated exchanges over the panama Canal, coudl you kick us off with a summary of the conflict?
(Dr. Isabella Vasquez, ph.D in International Relations)
“President Trump expressed discontentment during his inaugural address, believing that the Panama Canal was initially an American triumph that was misappropriated under the torrijos-Carter Treaties. Meanwhile, President Mulino has remained adamant: Panama Canal sovereignty and neutral governance must stand, rebuffing the implications of past grievances raised by President Trump.”
“While both administrations argue on past basis, President Mulino is grounded on the fundamental basis - the Torrijos-Carter treaties, passed without any disputes from the previous administrations.This provides sovereignty rights to the government and people of Panama.”
(emphasis Dr. Vasquez’s)
