In a strong affirmation of national sovereignty, Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino declared that the Panama Canal will \"continue to be in Panamanian hands\" amidst growing tensions with the United States. Speaking in a social media video post on Sunday, Mulino responded to threats from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who recently labeled the canal \"a vital national asset for the United States\" and hinted at possible actions to retake control, citing \"exorbitant prices\" imposed on U.S. ships.
Mulino emphasized that every square meter of the Panama Canal and its surrounding areas belong to Panama and \"will remain so.\" He underscored, \"The sovereignty and independence of our country are not negotiable,\" firmly rejecting any foreign claims or interventions.
Reflecting on the historical context, President Mulino reminded the international community of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties signed in 1977 by the then-Panamanian President Omar Torrijos and U.S. President Jimmy Carter. These treaties paved the way for Panama regaining full sovereignty over the canal on December 31, 1999, ensuring its permanent neutrality and open operation for all nations.
\"Any position to the contrary is invalid,\" Mulino stated, reinforcing the legal and international standing of Panama’s control over the canal. He also addressed the economic aspects, explaining that tariffs are set based on comprehensive factors including market conditions, international competition, operating costs, and the ongoing maintenance and modernization needs of the interoceanic waterway.
Looking forward, President Mulino expressed a desire to maintain a \"respectful\" relationship with the incoming U.S. administration. He highlighted shared security concerns such as illegal migration, drug trafficking, terrorism, and organized crime, proposing these as key priorities for bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
\"The Canal will continue to be in Panamanian hands as an inalienable patrimony of our nation and guaranteeing its use for the peaceful and uninterrupted transit of ships of all nations,\" concluded Mulino, reaffirming Panama's commitment to the canal's role in global trade and international relations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
