In brief
Panama has firmly stated its unwavering sovereignty over the Panama Canal after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump alluded to military intervention in a recent press conference. On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the canal's transfer to Panama, Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha rebuffed Trump's claims, emphasizing that "the only hands operating the canal are Panamanian" and made it clear that the canal's sovereignty is "non-negotiable".
Trump's comments suggested the canal was under the influence of Chinese soldiers, a claim that has been categorically denied by Panama's officials, including President José Raúl Mulino, who reiterated that the canal is under their control and expressed confusion over Trump's assertions. In the backdrop of Trump's controversial statements, Martínez-Acha confirmed that no formal proposals for the canal have been presented by the incoming administration.The canal, previously under U.S. management until 1999 after a treaty signed by President Jimmy Carter, remains a key symbol of Panama's autonomy. The incoming government of Trump has signaled interest in both the canal and the purchase of Greenland, but Panamá maintains that it is uninterested in entertaining any discussion regarding the canal's status. As the new administration approaches, Panama looks forward to establishing a collaborative relationship, reiterating its stance on sovereignty.
