Canal Controversy: Panama Affirms Canal Control in Response to Trump
In response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent statements about “taking back” the Panama Canal, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has firmly asserted that the canal “is and will remain” under Panamanian control.
President Mulino emphasized that the canal operates under Panama’s exclusive jurisdiction, dismissing claims of foreign interference.
The Panama Canal, constructed by the United States and operational since 1914, was transferred to Panamanian control on December 31, 1999, following the Torrijos-Carter Treaties signed in 1977.
President Trump’s remarks have sparked nationalist sentiments and concerns in Panama, with citizens recalling past U.S. interventions and expressing unease over potential implications.
In a related development, the Panamanian government has initiated an audit of Hutchison Ports, a Hong Kong-based company operating ports at both ends of the canal, to ensure transparency and address concerns about foreign influence.