Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino in Panama, discussing President Trump’s concerns regarding Chinese influence over the Panama Canal. Rubio emphasized that the current situation is unacceptable and could lead to the U.S. taking measures to protect its rights under the Treaty. The possibility of military force was not confirmed by the State Department.
Mulino denied Chinese control over the canal, which is operated by the Panama Canal Authority after being transferred from U.S. control in 1999. The U.S. has the ability to intervene if there is a threat to the canal’s neutrality. Following the meeting, Mulino announced that Panama may end its involvement with China’s Silk Road Initiative.
National Security Advisor Mike Waltz praised this decision as a positive step. The meeting also covered topics such as the migration crisis, climate investment, and support for a free Venezuela. Rubio’s visit highlighted the importance of the U.S.-Panama relationship and key issues in the region. Rubio and Mulino’s dialogue represents ongoing efforts to address concerns over Chinese influence in the region and protect U.S. interests in the Panama Canal.
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