The president of Panama, José Raúl Mulinorejected the statements of the president-elect of United States, Donald Trumpwho threatened to regain control of the Panama Canal. The tycoon’s statements, issued through his platform Truth Socialintensified diplomatic tensions between both nations.
Trump described the canal fees as “ridiculous” and denounced alleged growing Chinese influence in the interoceanic passage, which, according to him, threatens his country’s trade and security interests. “It was exclusively so that Panama I would manage it, no China nor anyone else,” he said. Trump. AHe warned that, if safe operation is not guaranteed, he will demand the return of the channel. “This complete scam on our country will stop immediately,” he said.
In response, Mill categorically rejected the statements. “The channel does not have direct or indirect control of any power. “As a Panamanian, I reject any manifestation that distorts this reality,” declared in a video on his X account. In addition, he demanded “respect” for Panamanian sovereignty and reaffirmed that “every square meter of the canal and its adjacent areas is Panama and it will continue to be so.”
🇵🇦 Message from President José Raúl Mulino 🇵🇦 pic.twitter.com/DMXU8qAuNT
— José Raúl Mulino (@JoseRaulMulino) December 22, 2024
The canal, completed by the United States in 1914 and returned to Panama in 1999 after the Torrijos-Carter Treaty of 1977. Being vital for global trade, allowing transit between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Mulino emphasized that Panama will continue to guarantee an efficient and reliable operation.
You may be interested: After assuming power, Trump will declare the cartels “terrorists”
For his part, the former Panamanian president Martin Torrijos He called any attempt at interference “an offense.” Meanwhile, Mill He expressed his willingness to maintain a “good and respectful” relationship with the future US government, advocating cooperation on issues such as migration y drug trafficking.
The words of Trump They raised concerns about possible diplomatic and economic repercussions, reviving the debate over control of the canal. As Mulino expressed: “The sovereignty and independence of our country are not negotiable.”
Related