In a bold statement during a rally in Phoenix, President-elect Donald Trump suggested that his incoming administration might seek to regain control over the Panama Canal, labeling its handover as “foolish.” This contentious remark was swiftly met with disapproval from Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino, who rebuffed the idea as a violation of Panama’s sovereignty.
Donald Trump, during his first major rally since winning the presidency, criticized the fees charged to shippers using the Panama Canal and implied that the United States had been taken advantage of by relinquishing control. Trump’s comments stirred immediate reactions as Panama is a pivotal U.S. ally, and the canal is essential for global maritime transit.
President José Raúl Mulino of Panama firmly dismissed Trump’s suggestion. He emphasized that the canal belongs to Panama and would remain under its control, insisting that fees are determined by experts based on operational costs and market factors, not arbitrarily.
The dram surrounding Trump’s comments was part of a larger four-day gathering of conservatives at the AmericaFest event in Arizona. Trump used this platform to unite his base, making grand promises of economic prosperity and a reinforced national border. Despite internal party conflicts and recent congressional budget disputes, Trump projected an image of harmony among Republicans.
During his appearance, Trump also announced key appointments in his upcoming administration. He chose Stephen Miran to lead the Council of Economic Advisers and named Callista Gingrich as the U.S. ambassador to Switzerland, highlighting these choices as part of his strategy to secure America’s future prosperity.
Trump’s discourse on the Panama Canal was accompanied by broader claims of American resurgence and his vision for the country’s future. He positioned himself as a leader ready to make bold moves, irrespective of international norms or existing treaties like the one signed by President Jimmy Carter in 1977, which transferred canal control to Panama in 1999.
The Panama Canal itself has experienced operational challenges recently due to droughts affecting its reservoirs, forcing reduced ship crossings. This situation has led to increased fees, which Trump criticized as “ridiculous.” However, Panama insists that these fees are necessary for maintenance and expansion.
Mulino responded to Trump’s remarks with a video statement, asserting Panama’s unwavering control over the canal and dismissing any external pressures to change this status quo. He called for national unity in defense of the canal and Panama’s sovereignty.
The unfolding dialogue over the Panama Canal’s ownership underscores the complexities of international diplomacy and the sensitivities surrounding national sovereignty. As President-elect Trump prepares to take office, his remarks have already sparked tensions, highlighting the challenges that will accompany his forthcoming administration.
Source: Wsvn
