Headline: Panama‘s President Stands Firm Against Trump‘s Canal Remarks: "Every Square Meter is Ours"
Panama’s President Laurentino Cortizo has swiftly responded to recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, asserting Panama’s sovereignty over the Panama Canal. Trump had suggested that he might "get involved" with the canal due to high tolls and Panama’s growing relationship with China.
In a strong statement, President Cortizo reaffirmed Panama’s ownership of the canal, stating, "Every square meter of the Panama Canal is ours. We Panamanians built it, we maintain it, and we defend it." He emphasized that the canal is a symbol of Panama’s independence and sovereignty, and any decision regarding it is solely Panama’s to make.
The remark by President Trump, who claimed that the U.S. has "isses" with Panama over the canal, has been met with criticism and concern in Panama. The country’s officials have stressed that the canal is a vital part of Panama’s economy and infrastructure, with any decision regarding it being a matter of national interest.
This latest development follows Trump’s previous threats to seize the canal due to high tolls and relate them to a 1903 treaty that granted the U.S. control over the canal zone until 1999. Panama has consistently rejected these claims, affirming its full control over the waterway since its handover from the U.S. in 1999.
In response to Trump’s latest remarks, Panama’s Foreign Minister, Politicians, and theriffees of various political parties have united, defending Panama’s sovereignty and rejecting any external interference in the canal’s management. They emphasize Panama’s capacity to manage the canal efficiently and ensure its economic prosperity.
As the U.S. and Panamanavigate these diplomatic waters, Panama remains resolute in its stance, defending its territorial integrity and the strategic importance of the Panama Canal.
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