In a recent address, Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino strongly defended the sovereignty of Panama, particularly concerning the Panama Canal, in light of comments from US President-elect Donald Trump. Trump threatened to retake control of the canal, a crucial waterway that significantly benefits the Panamanian economy and is vital for global commerce. In his address, Mulino declared the nation’s sovereignty as “non-negotiable” and proclaimed that every inch of the canal territory belongs to Panama. He invoked a sense of historical struggle and pride, reinforcing his commitment to maintaining control over the canal, which reflects both the nation’s dignity and its right to self-governance.
Trump’s criticism was amplified through social media and public speeches, where he labeled the fees for American vessels traversing the canal as excessive and exploitative. He argued that the United States has been “ripped off” by Panama and suggested that the canal ought to be returned to American control if Panama does not adhere to what he considers the principles of fairness and moral obligation. This proclamation is compounded by a sense of urgency and consequence, where Trump warned the Panamanian officials to take heed of his assertions about the canal falling into “the wrong hands,” particularly alluding to China. His statements underscore a broader narrative of American exceptionalism and desire to maintain influence over vital infrastructure.
Responding to Trump, President Mulino emphasized the transparency with which Panama sets canal passage rates, based on market conditions and operational needs. He cited the successful transfer of control from the US to Panama following the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, which outlined the terms of sovereignty. According to Mulino, there have been no complaints regarding Panama’s management of the canal since its handover, which he sees as a validation of the nation’s rightful stewardship. His defense included the assertion that the treaty also guarantees the canal’s neutrality, underlining its role as a channel for maritime trade unencumbered by nationalistic claims.
Moreover, Mulino rebuffed the notion that any foreign powers, including China or the European Union, influence the operations of the canal. The president stressed that the canal is managed by capable Panamanian professionals, ensuring its efficient and safe functioning, which significantly contributes to the nation’s economy. He painted a picture of national pride intertwined with global commerce, where the canal serves not just Panama but the international community as a whole. This claim of independence and professionalism is central to Mulino’s defense against Trump’s provocative assertions.
In his speech, Mulino called attention to the sacrifices made during Panama’s fight for sovereignty, referencing historical tensions with the United States, particularly events from the 1960s. These reflections served to reinforce the importance of national dignity in the context of current diplomatic and economic interactions. Asserting his desire for good relations with the incoming US government, he made it clear that issues like drug trafficking and terrorism could benefit from collaboration, but reiterated that the matter of the canal’s control is off the table and “non-negotiable.”
In conclusion, the diplomatic exchange surrounding the Panama Canal illustrates the deep-seated historical complexities between the United States and Panama. President Mulino’s strong rebuttal to Trump’s threats signifies a commitment to national pride and sovereignty while navigating the nuanced waters of international relations. As the two nations prepare for future interactions, Mulino’s message embodies both a defense of Panamanian autonomy and a cautious outlook towards continuing cooperation with the United States on shared challenges that transcend territorial disputes.
