President-elect Donald Trump once again made headlines on Tuesday by reiterating his bold intention to regain control of the Panama Canal, a topic that continues to stir debate. During a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, Trump accused the Panamanian government of imposing exorbitant fees on American ships using this critical passageway between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and alleged that China has taken a commanding role in its management.
In a pointed critique, Trump lambasted former President Jimmy Carter's historic decision to transfer control of the canal: "The Panama Canal was built for our military," he asserted, labeling the handover to Panama as a "major mistake," according to EFE news agency. He argued that this transfer allowed China to gain increasing influence over a pivotal international trade route. "The Panama Canal is crucial for our nation. It's run by China. We gave it to Panama, not China, and they've taken advantage of that gift. That decision should never have been made," he stated.
Historical Context and Trump's Position
The Panama Canal was a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy in the 1970s when Jimmy Carter negotiated treaties that led to Panama's sovereignty over the canal, a process completed in 1999. Trump has previously criticized this move, suggesting it was one reason Carter lost the 1980 reelection amid the Iranian hostage crisis. He has hinted at taking measures to reclaim control of the canal once he is inaugurated on January 20, though he has yet to provide specifics on how he intends to achieve this.
Reactions and Diplomatic Implications
The Panamanian government has strongly dismissed any attempts to alter the canal's sovereignty, raising concerns about the feasibility of Trump's assertions. When pressed by journalists on whether he would consider economic, military, or treaty renegotiation measures, Trump cryptically responded, "We'll have to do something."
Amidst these tensions, Trump appointed Kevin Marino Cabrera, a Cuban-American and current Miami-Dade County commissioner, as ambassador to Panama for his new administration. This appointment comes amid recent controversial statements in which Trump accused Panama of "swindling" the U.S. over canal tariffs.
Understanding the Panama Canal Controversy
Why is Trump interested in the Panama Canal?
Trump believes that the Panama Canal is vital for U.S. interests and has expressed concern over China's influence in its operation. He argues that the transfer of control to Panama was a mistake that allowed China to gain leverage over this strategic trade route.
What was the original agreement regarding the Panama Canal?
The original agreement, negotiated by former President Jimmy Carter, transferred control of the Panama Canal to Panama, completing the transition in 1999. This was intended to honor Panama's sovereignty over the canal.
How has Panama responded to Trump's statements?
The Panamanian government has firmly rejected any efforts to change the canal's sovereignty, emphasizing its control and management of the canal as a sovereign nation.