In a recent statement, former President Donald Trump suggested that the United States should have retained ownership of the Panama Canal, reigniting discussions on the historical significance and strategic importance of the waterway. Trump’s remarks came as he reflected on the canal’s return to Panama on December 31, 1999, as per the Torrijos-Carter Treaties signed in 1977. ‘We should have never given it back. We had it, and it was ours,’ he declared at a rally in Phoenix, Arizona. Trump’s comments have drawn sharp responses from both political figures and citizens in Panama. Panamanian President Laurentino Cortizo reacted strongly, stating that the canal’s return was a ‘sovereign decision’ that reflects the nation’s dignity and independence. ‘We will not accept any talking points that diminish our history,’ Cortizo added, emphasizing Panama’s control over the canal, which is vital for global trade, especially for countries relying on the shipment of goods between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The canal is an essential conduit for maritime traffic, significantly reducing travel time for vessels. Historically, the Panama Canal has been a point of contention, with the United States asserting control over it for nearly a century, before the treaties allowed for its transfer. The conversations surrounding Trump’s remarks underscore ongoing tensions about sovereignty and historical agreements, with critics arguing that such comments may stir unrest. Experts emphasize the importance of respectful dialogue regarding historical treaties and the acknowledgement of Panama’s agency in managing its resources.
Trump’s Controversial Claims on the Panama Canal Spark International Debate
