Panama’s Foreign Minister, Javier Martinez-Acha, reaffirmed the country's unwavering control over the Panama Canal, rejecting U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s threats of potential intervention and denying any financial offer regarding the waterway.
Panama’s Foreign Minister, Javier Martinez-Acha, reaffirmed the country’s firm control over the Panama Canal on Tuesday, dismissing U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s threats of military or economic intervention.
In a press conference, Martinez-Acha stressed that Panama’s sovereignty over the canal is “non-negotiable,” describing it as an “irreversible conquest” and part of the nation’s historical struggle. He emphasized that the canal’s mission is to serve humanity and global trade, and Panama would continue to ensure its operation remains under Panamanian control.
“There is no offer, no kind of proposal. The canal is Panamanian and will continue to be so,” Martinez-Acha declared, directly addressing Trump’s recent comments about potential financial offers.
Martinez-Acha’s statement comes after Trump’s recent remarks calling for possible military or economic intervention regarding the Panama Canal, a key global shipping route. The Foreign Minister also reiterated that Panama is open to dialogue, investments, and good relations, but made it clear that the country’s sovereignty remains a priority.
Panama's stance has received strong support, signaling the country’s commitment to protecting its control over the canal, which has been a symbol of its national pride since its handover from the United States in 1999.
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