Panama has formally challenged U.S. President Donald Trump’s provocative remarks about the Panama Canal, which suggested the possibility of U.S. intervention to seize control of the strategic waterway. In an escalating diplomatic standoff, Panama has lodged a formal complaint with the United Nations, urging the international body to address what it calls a “threat” to its sovereignty.
The Panamanian government sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, expressing concern over Trump’s comments during his inaugural address, where the U.S. President criticized China’s growing presence around the canal. Trump’s remarks suggested that the U.S. might take back control of the waterway, which was officially handed over to Panama in 1999. The Panamanian government responded by citing a provision from the UN Charter, which prohibits member states from using threats or force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any nation.
The letter, distributed to the media on Tuesday, urged Guterres to refer the matter to the UN Security Council. However, Panama stopped short of requesting an emergency meeting, instead seeking a diplomatic resolution.
Trump’s comments have stirred tension not only with Panama but also with China, as the U.S. President claimed that China had effectively taken over the canal. “We didn’t give it to China, we gave it to Panama,” Trump said. “And we’re taking it back.”
In response to these international pressures, the Panamanian government has ordered a thorough audit of the Panama Ports Company, which operates two critical ports on either side of the canal. The company, a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings, has long been at the center of controversy due to its business ties to China. The Panama comptroller’s office announced that the audit would examine the company’s financial records and its compliance with the terms of the concession, which has been in effect since 1999.
This audit is part of a broader effort by the Panamanian government to ensure that the canal’s operations remain transparent and in full compliance with national law. The move comes amid accusations from Trump that foreign entities, particularly China, may be influencing the canal’s management.
Panama’s President, Jose Raul Mulino, responded to the U.S. President’s remarks by reaffirming the nation’s full ownership of the Panama Canal. “The canal is and will remain Panama’s,” Mulino stated emphatically, rejecting any claims of foreign interference or external control.
While the United States remains the primary user of the canal, followed by China, Panama has benefitted significantly from the waterway’s operation, contributing billions to the national economy. The canal has brought in over $30 billion since the turnover in 2000, with nearly $2.5 billion in the most recent fiscal year alone.
Despite the contentious remarks from President Trump, Panama’s stance remains firm, as it seeks to protect its sovereignty and ensure that the canal continues to serve the best interests of the nation, while preserving its neutrality in international affairs.
