**The article explores the ongoing dispute between Panama and the United States over canal toll policies and alleged Chinese influence.**
**Panama Stands Firm Against US Allegations on Canal Policies**
**Panama Stands Firm Against US Allegations on Canal Policies**
**Tensions rise as Panama asserts its authority over the canal amid US claims of free transit for government vessels.**
Despite claims from the United States government that an agreement has been reached allowing US vessels transit through the Panama Canal without fees, Panama has emphatically denied any changes to its toll structure. The US State Department, utilizing X for its announcement, stated that the new policy saves the government millions yearly. However, the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) countered by emphasizing its exclusive power to set transit fees, noting no alterations had been made.
The dispute arises in the context of growing tensions between the two nations, particularly driven by former President Donald Trump's statements expressing a desire to reclaim control over the strategic waterway, crucial for international trade. Spanning 51 miles, the canal serves as a vital connector between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
During a recent diplomatic visit, Secretary of State Marco Rubio called for Panama to curb what he termed China's growing influence over the canal. He threatened potential actions to protect US rights established under treaties if Panama does not comply. Rubio's discussions included meetings with President José Raúl Mulino and canal administrator Ricaurte Vásquez Morales, where the ACP reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with the US Navy to prioritize American vessel movements.
Statistical insights reveal US vessels contribute significantly to canal traffic, accounting for over half of the transits in 2024. The canal sees upwards of 14,000 ships annually, making it an indispensable route to avoid the lengthy southern detour.
President Trump has previously claimed without evidence that China operates the canal, a statement firmly dismissed by Mulino. The Panamanian leader reiterated that the waterway is entirely under his country's administration and that there is no foreign interference. Furthermore, Panama's government is stepping back from its involvement in China's Belt and Road Initiative, reinforcing its stance on sovereignty over the canal.
Historically, the US constructed the canal in the early 1900s, and after decades, it was handed back to Panama following President Jimmy Carter's treaty in 1977, a move Trump has criticized as a grave error. As the situation develops, further diplomatic dialogues are anticipated between the two nations amid these conflicting viewpoints on canal operations and influences.
The dispute arises in the context of growing tensions between the two nations, particularly driven by former President Donald Trump's statements expressing a desire to reclaim control over the strategic waterway, crucial for international trade. Spanning 51 miles, the canal serves as a vital connector between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
During a recent diplomatic visit, Secretary of State Marco Rubio called for Panama to curb what he termed China's growing influence over the canal. He threatened potential actions to protect US rights established under treaties if Panama does not comply. Rubio's discussions included meetings with President José Raúl Mulino and canal administrator Ricaurte Vásquez Morales, where the ACP reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with the US Navy to prioritize American vessel movements.
Statistical insights reveal US vessels contribute significantly to canal traffic, accounting for over half of the transits in 2024. The canal sees upwards of 14,000 ships annually, making it an indispensable route to avoid the lengthy southern detour.
President Trump has previously claimed without evidence that China operates the canal, a statement firmly dismissed by Mulino. The Panamanian leader reiterated that the waterway is entirely under his country's administration and that there is no foreign interference. Furthermore, Panama's government is stepping back from its involvement in China's Belt and Road Initiative, reinforcing its stance on sovereignty over the canal.
Historically, the US constructed the canal in the early 1900s, and after decades, it was handed back to Panama following President Jimmy Carter's treaty in 1977, a move Trump has criticized as a grave error. As the situation develops, further diplomatic dialogues are anticipated between the two nations amid these conflicting viewpoints on canal operations and influences.
