Amidst rising diplomatic tension, Panama has firmly denied US assertions that it has permitted government vessels to traverse the Panama Canal without fees, emphasizing its sovereign right to impose tolls.
Panama Rebuffs US Claims of Free Passage for Government Vessels
Panama Rebuffs US Claims of Free Passage for Government Vessels
Panama Canal Authority asserts control over tolls amidst US tension over maritime governance.
In response to recent statements from the White House suggesting that agreements had been made to allow US government vessels free passage through the Panama Canal, Panama's Canal Authority (ACP) has clarified that it has made no alterations to existing transit fees. The State Department claimed in a social media post that such concessions would extend financial relief to the US government, saving them millions annually. However, ACP staunchly maintains its authority to establish tolls, rejecting any insinuation of legislative modifications.
The Panama Canal, an invaluable maritime corridor spanning 51 miles (82 km) and bridging the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, remains a focal point in US foreign policy. Senator Marco Rubio, during his recent visit to the region, demanded immediate action from Panama concerning what he deems increasing Chinese influence over the canal. He threatened to pursue "necessary measures" if Panama does not address these concerns, invoking tensions rooted in historical governance and ownership of the waterway, which was managed by the US until a gradual transfer of control culminated in 1999.
While America’s significant maritime traffic constitutes over half of the canal's transits, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino reiterated that the canal's administration is above external influences. He firmly rejected claims of any nation's interference, notably China's, emphasizing the canal's importance as a sovereign asset.
Historically, US involvement in the canal dates back to its construction in the early 20th Century, marking a pivotal chapter in both nations' diplomatic relations. Recent comments from Trump suggesting a desire to "retake" control have only escalated tensions. Mulino has described such perspectives as erroneous, emphasizing Panama's continuing governance over the canal's operations and reinforcing its commitment to its sovereignty.
The Panama Canal, an invaluable maritime corridor spanning 51 miles (82 km) and bridging the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, remains a focal point in US foreign policy. Senator Marco Rubio, during his recent visit to the region, demanded immediate action from Panama concerning what he deems increasing Chinese influence over the canal. He threatened to pursue "necessary measures" if Panama does not address these concerns, invoking tensions rooted in historical governance and ownership of the waterway, which was managed by the US until a gradual transfer of control culminated in 1999.
While America’s significant maritime traffic constitutes over half of the canal's transits, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino reiterated that the canal's administration is above external influences. He firmly rejected claims of any nation's interference, notably China's, emphasizing the canal's importance as a sovereign asset.
Historically, US involvement in the canal dates back to its construction in the early 20th Century, marking a pivotal chapter in both nations' diplomatic relations. Recent comments from Trump suggesting a desire to "retake" control have only escalated tensions. Mulino has described such perspectives as erroneous, emphasizing Panama's continuing governance over the canal's operations and reinforcing its commitment to its sovereignty.
