[IMAGE – FOX BUSINESS]
Donald Trump, who will soon become the President, has talked about the Panama Canal. He is worried about how it is run and the costs for American ships. His comments have led to conversations about the canal’s past, how it works now, and its connections with other countries.
Background on the Panama Canal
The Panama Canal is an important waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It was built by the United States in the early 1900s and started working in 1914. In 1977, the U.S. agreed, through an agreement called the Torrijos–Carter Treaties, to give control of the canal to Panama. This transfer was finished on December 31, 1999. Since then, a Panamanian group called the Panama Canal Authority has been in charge of running it. They make sure the canal stays neutral and is open for ships from all countries.
President-elect Trump’s Statements
On December 21, 2024, while speaking publicly, President-elect Trump said he thought the fees Panama charges for using the canal are too high and not fair for American ships and navy vessels. He mentioned that if these fees don’t go down, the United States might think about taking control of the canal again.
Later, Trump talked about being worried that the canal could end up in the wrong hands, pointing to China’s increasing power in the area. He stressed how important the canal is for America’s safety and its economy.
Panama’s Response
Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino strongly responded to Trump’s comments, clearly stating that Panama has full authority over the canal. He explained that the fees for using the canal are set based on the costs of running it and current market situations, which helps keep the canal working well and lasting for a long time. Mulino made it clear that Panama has complete control over how the canal operates and that any outside interference would not be allowed.
International Reactions
Trump’s comments have caused different reactions around the world. Some experts think his words are a plan to reduce China’s power in Latin America. But, some people worry his words might cause problems between the U.S. and Panama. Those who disagree say trying to take back control of the canal could break important agreements and hurt friendly relationships between countries.
Historical Context
In 1999, the U.S. gave control of the Panama Canal to Panama, after the Torrijos–Carter Treaties were signed in 1977. These treaties were important for U.S.-Panama relations, as they recognized Panama’s control over the canal while keeping it open for international ships. Looking at these agreements again could have big effects on world politics.
In the end, as President-elect Trump gets ready to take office, his comments about the Panama Canal show how complicated international relationships can be and how important it is to work together through diplomacy. This situation reminds us of the need to think carefully about past agreements and how changes in policy could affect global partnerships.
BY – NIKITA
