Panama asserts full sovereignty over the canal, countering Trump’s remarks on U.S. rights and Chinese influence.
Panama City [Panama], January 21: In a resolute response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks on reclaiming control of the Panama Canal, Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino delivered a firm statement emphasizing the nation’s sovereignty. Mulino declared that the canal is solely managed by Panama and warned against any external interference.
“No Nation Will Dictate Our Canal’s Future”
“The Panama Canal is and will continue to operate under Panamanian control with respect for its permanent neutrality. No nation in the world has any right to interfere with our administration,” Mulino asserted, directly countering Trump’s statements during his inaugural address.
The canal’s transfer to Panama in 1999 under the Torrijos-Carter Treaty marked a historic moment of sovereignty, Mulino emphasized. “The canal was not a concession but the culmination of generational efforts. For 25 years, we have responsibly administered and expanded it to serve global trade, including the United States,” he added.
Commitment to Diplomacy Amid Tensions
Mulino reaffirmed Panama’s commitment to diplomacy, vowing to defend the canal’s neutrality and sovereignty while maintaining productive relations with global partners.
“We will manage international relations with dignity, dialogue, and respect for international law, while ensuring the canal remains wholly ours,” Mulino stated.
Trump’s Claims of Unfair Treatment
In his inaugural address, President Trump claimed that the U.S. was treated “unfairly” regarding the canal, citing excessive fees and alleged Chinese influence.
“We spent more money and lost more lives than any project before, yet we’ve been treated badly from this foolish gift. Panama’s promise to us has been broken,” Trump said, hinting at plans to take back control of the canal.
Defending the Legacy
Mulino’s remarks come amid growing tensions over U.S. accusations of Chinese involvement in the canal’s operations. However, the Panamanian president reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to neutrality and sovereignty.
Tags: Panama Canal sovereignty, Jose Raul Mulino strong statement, Donald Trump inaugural claims, Torrijos-Carter Treaty legacy, China-Panama relations, international trade diplomacy, canal administration rights
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