Panama's President, José Raúl Mulino, has firmly stated that the Panama Canal is entirely under Panama's sovereignty and has been managed with transparency and efficiency. The canal contributes billions of dollars annually to the Panamanian economy and remains a national symbol of pride. Mulino emphasized that the canal is not under the control of any country, including the United States or China, and called for respect for Panama's sovereignty. He also expressed a desire to maintain a cordial relationship with the incoming U.S. administration.
On the other hand, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has expressed frustration with what he describes as "exorbitant" fees charged for U.S. ships passing through the canal. Trump threatened to demand the return of the canal's control to the U.S. unless Panama ensures safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the canal. Trump also raised concerns about China's growing influence in the region, which he believes could pose a threat to U.S. interests. He emphasized that the U.S. would not allow the canal to fall into the hands of "bad actors."
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The ongoing dispute underscores the delicate balance between respecting national sovereignty and maintaining international cooperation over such a vital global trade route.
