The Panama Canal Authority has strongly rejected claims from the U.S. State Department saying that Panama agreed to let U.S. government ships pass through the canal without paying fees. This disagreement comes at a time when tensions are rising, especially after President Donald Trump called for the U.S. to take control of this important waterway again.
On social media, the U.S. State Department said Panama had agreed to waive all transit fees for U.S. ships, which could save the U.S. a lot of money. However, just hours later, the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) denied this statement, insisting that they alone control the fees. They explained that only early conversations had taken place with U.S. officials about U.S. Navy ships passing through.
This conflict follows a visit from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Panama, where he discussed concerns about China’s influence in the area. He emphasized that China’s growing role is viewed as a threat to U.S. safety and trade. Rubio even criticized China’s involvement in the canal while visiting the site.
President Trump has often expressed his discontent with Panama’s control over the canal, saying that the decision made by former President Jimmy Carter to hand over control in 1999 was a mistake. He has also complained about high toll fees set by the ACP. Trump claims, without proof, that China has significant control over the canal, which Panama firmly denies. Since Trump’s return to office, he has threatened to take military or economic action to protect U.S. interests regarding the canal.
China responded to these U.S. claims, stating that they do not control the Panama Canal. A spokesperson for China criticized the U.S. remarks as irresponsible, claiming Washington is trying to undermine China’s partnerships in Latin America.
Despite pressure, Panama has stood firm, reaffirming its control over the canal. President Mulino assured Trump that Panama would not renew a 2017 agreement with China. However, Panama insisted that it will make its own decisions about the canal’s management, free from outside pressure.
FAQs:
1. Did Panama agree to waive transit fees for U.S. vessels?
No, the Panama Canal Authority denied the U.S. claim about waiving fees for U.S. ships.
2. Has the U.S. threatened action over the Panama Canal?
Yes, Trump has suggested the U.S. may consider military or economic actions if Panama does not follow U.S. demands
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