Panama City: President Mulino Stands Firm on Panama Canal Control
On Thursday, Panama’s president, José Raúl Mulino, made it clear that he will not be discussing the **control of the Panama Canal** with US president-elect Donald Trump. In a press conference, Mulino firmly rejected claims that China was interfering in the operation of this vital waterway, which plays a significant role in global maritime traffic.
The Canal Belongs to Panama
Mulino stated, “There’s nothing to talk about. The canal is Panamanian and belongs to Panamanians.” He emphasized that there would be no discussion regarding the canal’s return to US control, pointing out that the country has fought hard to maintain its sovereignty over the waterway, which has “cost the country blood, sweat, and tears.” The Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, was originally built by the United States but was handed over to Panama on December 31, 1999, following treaties signed in the 1970s under then-President Jimmy Carter.
Trump’s Concerns
Just days earlier, Trump had criticized what he described as “ridiculous” toll fees for US ships passing through the canal. He suggested a growing influence of China over the strategic waterway, tweeting, “It was solely for Panama to manage, not China or anyone else. We would and will NEVER let it fall into the wrong hands!” Trump went on to say that if Panama could not ensure the canal was safely and efficiently operated, the US would demand it be returned “in full, and without question.”
In addition to these comments, Trump nominated Miami-Dade county commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera as the new ambassador to Panama, praising him as a strong advocate for American interests.
Usage Fees and Operations
During the press conference, Mulino clarified that the tolls charged for using the canal are not determined arbitrarily. He explained that they are set under a well-established “public and open process.” Furthermore, he argued that these fees are designed to be fair and sustainable for all shipping traffic, which includes an estimated 5% of global maritime activity. The United States remains the largest user of the canal, accounting for approximately 74% of its cargo traffic, followed closely by China with 21%.
Denial of Chinese Military Presence
Mulino also addressed Trump’s unsubstantiated claims that Chinese soldiers were operating within the canal. “There are no Chinese soldiers in the canal, for the love of God,” Mulino stated emphatically, dismissing the accusation. He insisted that Panama operates the canal independently without any foreign military presence influencing its management.
Panama established diplomatic relations with China in 2017, breaking off ties with Taiwan—a move that was viewed critically by members of the previous Trump administration.
Public Sentiment Against US Interference
As tensions rise, public sentiment in Panama appears to lean against Trump’s demands. Recently, a group of demonstrators gathered outside the US embassy in Panama City, chanting slogans like “Trump, animal, leave the canal alone” while burning an image of the incoming president. This outpouring of public support for maintaining control of the canal signifies the collective will of many Panamanians who feel strongly about their nation’s sovereignty and control over one of the world’s most significant waterways.
In conclusion, President Mulino’s firm stance against any negotiations regarding the Panama Canal highlights the importance of national pride and sovereignty, especially in light of external pressures from the United States. As both sides prepare for the next steps, the future management and control of the Panama Canal remain a crucial issue in Panamanian politics.
