Panama’s President discusses canal, China, and migration with U.S. top diplomat

Panama’s President Raúl Mulino met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss key issues, including the Panama Canal, Chinese influence, and migration policies. Mulino reaffirmed Panama’s sovereignty and announced that his government will not renew the 2017 Belt and Road Initiative memorand

Panama’s President Raúl Mulino held talks with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday, addressing concerns over the Panama Canal, Chinese influence, and regional migration policies.

Speaking after the meeting, Mulino described the discussions as "cordial and respectful", emphasizing Panama’s strategic relationship with the U.S. while defending the country’s sovereignty over the canal.

Panama Canal and Chinese Influence

Mulino addressed U.S. concerns over China’s involvement in Panama, particularly in relation to ports near the canal. He stated that for the first time since the 1997 concession, two Chinese-owned ports are undergoing audits by Panamanian authorities.

"We have to wait for the audit process to conclude before drawing legal conclusions and acting accordingly," Mulino said.

He also confirmed that the Panama Canal remains under national control, responding to recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed concerns over Chinese presence in the region.

"The canal is operated by our country and will continue to be so," Mulino stated.

Migration Agreement With the U.S.

Mulino and Rubio also discussed expanding the memorandum of understanding signed with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in July 2024 to strengthen migration controls.

The agreement focuses on the repatriation of migrants from the Darién Gap, a key transit route for people traveling from Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador. Mulino offered Panama’s Nicanor track in Metetí, Darién as a repatriation hub.

Panama Ends Belt and Road Agreement

Mulino confirmed that his government will not renew the 2017 memorandum of understanding on China’s Belt and Road Initiative, signaling a shift in Panama’s economic and diplomatic stance.

With U.S.-Panama relations under renewed focus, the meeting highlighted the region’s growing geopolitical tensions, particularly over China’s role in Latin America and the strategic importance of the Panama Canal.

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