In a heated response to remarks made by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, Panama’s government has declared that its sovereignty over the Panama Canal is "non-negotiable." This assertion comes after Trump suggested during a recent press conference his interest in potentially using military force to take control of the canal, misleadingly asserting it was currently operated by Chinese soldiers.
Panama Reaffirms Sovereignty Over Canal Amid Trump Threats
Panama Reaffirms Sovereignty Over Canal Amid Trump Threats
Panamanian officials firmly state the canal will remain under their control following Trump's controversial comments.
Panamanian Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha quickly rebutted these claims, emphasizing that only Panamanians operate the canal now, a fact reiterated following recent celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of its handover from U.S. control on December 31, 1999. Trump's comments have sparked outrage among Panamanian leaders, with President José Raúl Mulino previously denouncing the false notion of Chinese involvement and reaffirming the canal's sovereignty.
During the news conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump criticized the decision made by former President Jimmy Carter to return the canal to Panama, labeling it a "big mistake." When pressed about the possibility of using military or economic force to gain control, Trump conveniently avoided giving a clear response. Meanwhile, Martínez-Acha dismissed Trump's claims of financial offers as unfounded, stating that Panama upholds the canal's sovereignty as a crucial part of its identity and heritage.
As the country prepares to engage with the incoming Trump administration starting January 20, Panama remains committed to fostering positive relations while resolutely defending its history and control over the canal.
During the news conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump criticized the decision made by former President Jimmy Carter to return the canal to Panama, labeling it a "big mistake." When pressed about the possibility of using military or economic force to gain control, Trump conveniently avoided giving a clear response. Meanwhile, Martínez-Acha dismissed Trump's claims of financial offers as unfounded, stating that Panama upholds the canal's sovereignty as a crucial part of its identity and heritage.
As the country prepares to engage with the incoming Trump administration starting January 20, Panama remains committed to fostering positive relations while resolutely defending its history and control over the canal.
