In Panama City on Sunday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino that if Panama does not promptly address what the President perceives as China's influence over the Panama Canal, the U.S. will intervene as necessary.
Following discussions, Mulino indicated a willingness to reevaluate agreements involving China and strengthen cooperation with the U.S. on migration. However, he reaffirmed Panama's sovereignty over the canal as non-negotiable.
During the meeting, Rubio conveyed a message from President Trump asserting that China's involvement near the canal posed a threat and breached the U.S.-Panama treaty.
Rubio did not specify the actions Panama must take or the potential U.S. response. Trump's previous mention of taking control of the canal was met with criticism from various Latin American nations.
Mulino assured a review of Chinese businesses in Panama, including a significant concession to Hong Kong's CK Hutchison Holdings, subject to an audit and potential termination.
In response to U.S. concerns about China's expanding presence in Panama, Mulino mentioned discontinuing their participation in China's Belt and Road initiative.
Both countries emphasized the importance of maintaining the neutrality treaty governing the canal. While Rubio sought to address migration concerns, China maintained that it respected Panama's sovereignty over the waterway.
Rubio's visit to the canal aimed to reinforce U.S. engagement in the Western Hemisphere and counter China's influence in the region.
Mulino announced the possibility of extending cooperation with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to facilitate the safe return of migrants through Panama.
Rubio prioritized migration issues and regional diplomacy during the trip, highlighting efforts to engage with countries in the area.