In a recent development, Panama has firmly denied US claims that it has altered its canal transit fees for government vessels. The Panama Canal Authority stated that it retains authority over tolls and has not made any adjustments, pushing back against diplomatic pressure from the US.
Panama Refutes US Allegations on Canal Transit Changes
Panama Refutes US Allegations on Canal Transit Changes
The Panama Canal Authority asserts that tolls for US vessels remain unchanged despite White House claims of free passage.
The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has officially rejected claims by the US government suggesting that changes have been made to allow US government vessels to transit the canal without charge. This denial comes on the heels of a statement from the US State Department, which asserted that its vessels could now pass through the crucial waterway for free, purportedly saving millions annually.
In response, ACP clarified that it is "empowered to set tolls and other fees for transiting the canal," emphasizing that no changes to these fees have been instituted. This statement arrives amidst heightened tensions surrounding the canal's operations and its geopolitical significance.
US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have raised concerns about China's growing influence in the region, demanding Panama take immediate action to address these fears. Rubio's visit included discussions with Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino and the canal's administrator, Ricaurte Vásquez Morales. Following these discussions, the ACP expressed its commitment to work collaboratively with the US Navy to enhance transit priority for American vessels.
Currently, US vessels represent a considerable portion of traffic through the canal. 52% of transits in 2024 were connected to US ports, highlighting the strategic importance of this passage for American trade.
The tension has historical roots, dating back to the US construction of the canal in the early 20th Century. Subsequent treaties, particularly one signed by President Jimmy Carter in 1977, established a phased return of control to Panama, though former President Trump has criticized this decision as a major misstep.
As Panama maintains that the canal will remain firmly under its jurisdiction, it continues to reject any allegations concerning foreign interference, particularly from China. Indeed, Mulino has affirmed that Panama will not engage further in China's Belt and Road Initiative, aiming to reinforce its sovereignty over the vital trade route.
In response, ACP clarified that it is "empowered to set tolls and other fees for transiting the canal," emphasizing that no changes to these fees have been instituted. This statement arrives amidst heightened tensions surrounding the canal's operations and its geopolitical significance.
US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have raised concerns about China's growing influence in the region, demanding Panama take immediate action to address these fears. Rubio's visit included discussions with Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino and the canal's administrator, Ricaurte Vásquez Morales. Following these discussions, the ACP expressed its commitment to work collaboratively with the US Navy to enhance transit priority for American vessels.
Currently, US vessels represent a considerable portion of traffic through the canal. 52% of transits in 2024 were connected to US ports, highlighting the strategic importance of this passage for American trade.
The tension has historical roots, dating back to the US construction of the canal in the early 20th Century. Subsequent treaties, particularly one signed by President Jimmy Carter in 1977, established a phased return of control to Panama, though former President Trump has criticized this decision as a major misstep.
As Panama maintains that the canal will remain firmly under its jurisdiction, it continues to reject any allegations concerning foreign interference, particularly from China. Indeed, Mulino has affirmed that Panama will not engage further in China's Belt and Road Initiative, aiming to reinforce its sovereignty over the vital trade route.
