The University of Panama reaffirmed its rejection of the attacks by the President of the United States, Donald Trump, regarding the management of the Panama Canal during a visit to the U.S. Embassy. The rector of the university, Dr. Eduardo Flores Castro, along with other university authorities and students, presented an open letter from the Academic Council expressing their disagreement with the statements of the U.S. leader.
Despite attempts to deliver the letter personally at the embassy, the security staff refused to accept it, indicating that it must be sent by postal mail. Nevertheless, Flores Castro explained that they had previously informed the embassy about the delivery of the document.
In the letter written in English, the University of Panama rejects any attempt at intervention that affects Panamanian sovereignty and its right to live in peace. The statement also expresses the intention to deliver the letter to President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, following the appropriate procedures.
The Academic Council contends that Trump's attacks are part of a strategy to impose a new world order, away from the principles of equity and social justice. Additionally, they highlight the symbolic value and historical importance of the Panama Canal for the Panamanian nation, emphasizing the effort and struggle that its recovery represented.
Furthermore, it emphasizes the context of bilateral relations between Panama and the United States, recalling the significant investment made for the expansion of the Canal to allow the transit of larger vessels. The letter reiterates the commitment of the academic community of the University of Panama in defense of national sovereignty against any external interference.
