Trump To Take Back Control Of Panama Canal Over China’s Influence On Its Operations

U.S. President Donald Trump, during his second inaugural speech, has vowed to take back control of the Panama Canal.

Trump accused Panama of failing to keep promises made during the 1999 transfer of control over the strategic waterway. He also criticised Panama for allowing China to influence its operations.

Panama, however, has denied these claims insisting that it operates the canal fairly and neutrally, benefiting all nations, including the U.S.

The U.S. president did not provide specific details on when or how the U.S. would reclaim control, but he previously refused to rule out military action.

Critics see the move as a threat to international stability. Some fear that such statements could encourage other powerful nations like China or Russia to take aggressive actions in their regions.

Trump has earlier expressed interest in acquiring Greenland and even turning Canada into a U.S. state, for territory expansion. His inauguration speech also hinted at future U.S. ambitions, including space exploration, with plans to send American astronauts to Mars.

Panama’s President, Jose Raul Mulino, responded to Trump’s comments on social media, reaffirming Panama’s sovereignty over the canal and saying that the waterway would remain under its control.

Panama also rejected the claims that China controls or influences the canal’s operations, despite reports of Chinese companies managing nearby ports.

These statements made by Trump about the canal are aimed at increasing U.S. territorial claims, citing the concept of Manifest Destiny a 19th-century idea that justified U.S. territorial expansion across North America.

Despite the ongoing controversy, Panama has launched an audit of the Panama Ports Company, which operates ports near the canal.

The Panama Canal, a vital waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, was originally constructed by the United States in the early 20th century.

It remained under U.S. control until 1999 when the canal was handed over to Panama after the Torrijos-Carter Treaties signed in 1977.
The canal is essential for global trade, especially for the U.S., as it facilitates the transport of goods like automobiles and liquefied natural gas.

Trump has also criticised Panama for what he calls “unfair” fees imposed on U.S. ships passing through the canal. He claims that U.S. vessels are being charged excessively and not treated equally.

References: Reuters, News 18

Source: Maritime Shipping News