Panamanian president, José Raúl Mulino, assured in a press conference that during his meeting with U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, he clearly conveyed that "the sovereignty of Panama is not in question." The meeting took place amidst the concerns raised by statements from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding regaining American control of the Panama Canal due to alleged Chinese influences.
Mulino stated that it is indisputable that the canal is operated by Panama and that it will continue to be so, ruling out any possibility that the United States could use military force to take control of the infrastructure. According to the president, there is no real threat against the sovereignty treaty of the canal, nor is there any indication of the use of military force to seize it.
In response to the question of whether the population can feel assured about this, Mulino expressed his confidence regarding the situation. The president described the meeting with Rubio as respectful and cordial, in which a possible new phase in the relationship between the two countries was opened, free from controversies or disrespect, according to his words.
The Panamanian president emphasized that the responsibility to clarify the doubts raised by the Trump administration lies with the authorities of the Panama Canal, highlighting the autonomy granted to them by the country’s constitution. Regarding U.S. concerns about the ports operated by a Chinese company, Mulino informed Rubio that audits are being conducted, and the conclusions will determine the legal actions to be taken.
Additionally, Mulino communicated to Rubio his decision not to renew the agreement with China regarding the new Silk Road and proposed to expand the pact with the United States for the deportation of migrants on flights financed by Washington.
