Panama City| Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has firmly dismissed any possibility of negotiations with the United States regarding the ownership of the Panama Canal, reaffirming that the strategic waterway belongs solely to Panama.
“It is impossible; I cannot negotiate. The canal belongs to Panama,” Mulino declared unequivocally during a press conference on January 30.
His remarks come in direct response to recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, who, during his inauguration speech on January 20, vowed to reclaim control of the canal.
Trump alleged that “China effectively controls” the vital shipping route and suggested that the U.S. must take action.
“We didn’t give it to China; we gave it to Panama. And we’re going to take it back,” Trump asserted.
Panama Stands Firm on Sovereignty
President Mulino swiftly countered these claims, underscoring the canal’s significance as a cornerstone of Panamanian sovereignty.
He reiterated that the waterway, which was officially transferred to Panama on December 31, 1999, following the Torrijos-Carter Treaties of 1977, is under full Panamanian control and will remain so.
“This is not a matter up for discussion. The canal is an integral part of our identity, our economy, and our national sovereignty,” Mulino stressed.
His remarks reflect the strong national sentiment surrounding the canal, which is not only a major source of revenue for Panama but also a symbol of the country’s independence and self-determination.
U.S. Diplomatic Visit to Panama
Despite the controversy, Mulino expressed optimism about maintaining constructive relations with Washington.
He confirmed that discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is scheduled to visit Panama on February 2, will focus on critical issues such as regional migration and drug trafficking.
Rubio’s visit to Panama marks the beginning of his first official overseas tour, which will also include Guatemala, Costa Rica, and El Salvador.
The talks are expected to center on strengthening security cooperation and addressing shared concerns across Central America.
A Contentious History of Control
The Panama Canal, an engineering marvel that revolutionized global trade when it opened in 1914, was controlled by the United States for 85 years before being handed over to Panama at the turn of the millennium.
Since then, Panama has successfully managed the canal, modernizing its operations and ensuring its continued role as a crucial artery for international maritime commerce.
Trump’s comments have reignited longstanding tensions regarding U.S. influence in the region.
Any suggestion of revisiting the canal’s status is met with fierce opposition from both the Panamanian government and its citizens, who view the waterway’s control as a hard-won achievement.
With President Mulino making it clear that sovereignty over the canal is non-negotiable, Panama appears resolute in defending its national interests against any external pressures.
Share This Post