In a significant diplomatic move, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet with Panama’s President on Sunday. This meeting marks Rubio’s first international visit as a key U.S. diplomat, amidst increasing pressure from President Donald Trump regarding the Panama Canal.
The backdrop of Rubio’s visit is a complex geopolitical landscape. Just a day prior, President Trump announced substantial tariffs impacting Canada and Mexico, sparking retaliatory measures. Meanwhile, Rubio opts for a less confrontational approach, seeking diplomatic engagement with Panama.
The primary agenda for Rubio’s visit includes discussions with Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino. These talks are anticipated to cover bilateral interests like migration and drug trafficking. However, a contentious issue looms — Trump’s desire to reclaim control over the Panama Canal from Panama, a sentiment fueled by concerns over China’s growing influence in the region.
Mulino has firmly stated that there will be no negotiations regarding the canal’s ownership, a position that resonates with many Panamanians who have protested against Trump’s plans. Nevertheless, there is speculation that Panama might consider a compromise that could lead to changes in how the canal’s operations are managed, particularly in reconsidering the role of Hong Kong-based company Hutchison Ports.
Rubio’s visit also involves inspecting an energy facility and observing the canal, which remains a focal point of Trump’s interest. Despite opposition, Trump’s push for the canal’s return is clear, and Rubio intends to emphasize this stance, although he acknowledges local resistance.
Through an opinion piece in the Wall Street Journal, Rubio highlighted issues like mass migration and drug problems exacerbated by port facilities in the canal area managed by Chinese interests. “We will address this,” Rubio asserted, underscoring Trump’s clear intention to regain canal management — a view not shared by Panama.
As part of a broader tour, Rubio will also travel to El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic amid the U.S. freeze on foreign aid. The Department of State has confirmed that Rubio approved waivers for essential programs in these nations, though specifics remain undisclosed.
Rubio’s Latin American tour reflects a strategic U.S. diplomatic endeavor during a period of heightened geopolitical tensions. His discussions in Panama highlight critical regional concerns, especially regarding the Panama Canal, as the U.S. navigates complex international dynamics.
