Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino firmly rejected any discussions with US President-elect Donald Trump regarding the control of the Panama Canal, addressing claims of Chinese interference in its operations. Mulino also dismissed suggestions of lowering tolls for US vessels, following Trump’s comments urging Washington to reclaim authority over the vital waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
At a press conference, Mulino stated, “There’s nothing to talk about,” emphasizing that the canal is owned solely by Panama and its people. He underscored the sacrifices made to secure the canal’s sovereignty.
The Panama Canal, which opened in 1914, was initially built by the United States but was handed over to Panama on December 31, 1999, following agreements signed by US President Jimmy Carter and Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos in the 1970s.
Trump had criticized the toll rates for US ships and suggested that China’s influence was a factor. He posted on Truth Social, asserting that Panama should have full control over the canal, without any foreign involvement. Trump further warned that the US would demand the canal’s return if Panama failed to ensure its security and operational efficiency.
