In a recent discussion with U.S. Senator Marco Rubio and other officials, Panamanian President Laurentino Cortizo firmly stated that control of the Panama Canal is not up for discussion. This comment comes amidst rising tensions and interests concerning the strategic waterway, which serves as a crucial conduit for international maritime trade. President Cortizo emphasized, ‘The Panama Canal is a vital asset that belongs to Panama, and its control will not be negotiated.’ This meeting, which took place on January 30, 2025, sought to address various cooperation issues between Panama and the United States, including security and economic partnerships. Senator Rubio reiterated support for Panama, highlighting the importance of the canal in global shipping, and pledged U.S. assistance in bolstering security in the region. Despite ongoing discussions about improvements and potential investments in the canal’s infrastructure, President Cortizo made it clear that the canal’s sovereignty is non-negotiable. The U.S. has maintained influence over the canal’s operations since its handover from U.S. control in 1999, but recent talks indicate a desire for even greater collaboration without compromising Panama’s control. The Panamanian government is currently in the process of further modernizing the canal system to handle increasing maritime traffic in the coming years, showcasing its commitment to maintaining its strategic importance on the world stage.
