"Pursuing Control Over Panama Canal": Pentagon Leader Meets with President of Panama

 

"Pursuing Control Over Panama Canal": Pentagon Leader Meets with President of Panama

"In collaboration, we (the US and Panama) will reclaim the Panama Canal from China's sway," stated Secretary Hegseth in Panama City. The United States intends to regain authority over the Panama Canal, thus diminishing China's impact on one of the globe's critical waterways, announced US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth today following an unusual trip to the Central American nation.

This visit marks the first time in many years that a US defense secretary has traveled to Panama, during which Mr. Hegseth engaged in private discussions with Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino. He also had the opportunity to closely observe the canal while the US expressed significant worries regarding China's financial investments and actions surrounding this vital passage that links the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. 

After his discussions with the Panamanian administration, the Pentagon leader committed to strengthening military cooperation between the US and Panamanian forces. He emphasized that China would "not be permitted to weaponize" the canal by disguising its espionage activities through commercial dealings of Chinese companies.

"In collaboration, we (the US and Panama) will reclaim the Panama Canal from China's sway," Secretary Hegseth mentioned in Panama City. Given Donald Trump's assertive statements, the stakes for Hegseth's visit were significant.

The newly forged relationship with Panama, the first since 1999, indicates a possible end to China's influence over the Panama Canal, he proposed. "China did not construct this canal. China does not manage this canal, nor will it weaponize this canal. With Panama taking the lead, we will ensure the canal remains secure and accessible for all nations," he asserted.

The Pentagon head also commended President Mulino, noting that his administration recognizes "the danger posed by China." His statements regarding Panama taking the "lead" in addressing the security issues of the canal seemed to acknowledge local sentiments.

While Secretary Hegseth discussed diminishing China's presence in Panama, President Trump has expressed broader concepts and has not hesitated to suggest the possibility of military engagement if deemed necessary. Prior to Mr. Hegseth's visit, the Trump Administration had reportedly sought strategies from the military to secure access to the Panama Canal.

The United States completed the construction of the Panama Canal over a century ago and transferred full operational control to Panama in 1999. This recent development shifts that scenario, as the US military is expected to begin regular patrols and access to the canal in cooperation with Panama's security forces.

As reported by Reuters, numerous current and former US officials along with strategic specialists indicate that the United States has discovered a cooperative ally in combating Chinese influence with Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino.

In February, President Mulino publicly declared Panama's decision to withdraw from China's Belt and Road Initiative. Additionally, he has supported Donald Trump's efforts to manage migrants within the United States, which included accepting deportation flights for non-Panamanians and taking measures to reduce illegal migration from South America through the hazardous Darien jungle in his country.