The Panama Canal, a vital artery of international maritime trade, has once again found itself embroiled in controversy following recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump. His comments suggesting preferential treatment for U.S. vessels have sparked outrage across Panama, recalling historical tensions between the two nations. The canal, which contributes a significant 7.7% to Panama's GDP, is not only an economic cornerstone but also a symbol of national pride and identity for Panamanians.
The Panama Canal is a crucial link in global trade, accommodating about 5% of the world's maritime traffic. Its strategic location saves ships a perilous and lengthy 6,835-mile journey around South America's southern tip. Initially built by the United States between 1904 and 1914, the canal was under U.S. control until a treaty signed by President Jimmy Carter in 1977 led to its transfer to Panama in 1999. This transfer came with the stipulation that the canal would remain neutral and accessible to ships from any nation, a point emphasized by Ricaurte Vásquez Morales, head of the Panama Canal Authority.
"We cannot discriminate for the Chinese, or the Americans, or anyone else. This will violate the neutrality treaty, international law and it will lead to chaos," – Ricaurte Vásquez Morales
Trump's assertions that China controls the canal have been met with strong rebuttals from Panamanian officials and citizens alike. While Chinese companies are involved in nearby ports through a Hong Kong consortium, they exert no control over the canal itself. Javier Martínez-Acha, a prominent figure in Panama, reinforced this point.
"The only hands operating the canal are Panamanian and that is how it is going to stay," – Javier Martínez-Acha
The reaction from Panama has been swift and unified. Vamvas, a local commentator, expressed the collective sentiment.
"Panama might be divided politically but we all agree the canal is a national treasure. Everyone here is outraged by Trump’s comments," – Vamvas
These remarks have also reopened old wounds from the U.S. invasion of Panama in 1989 during Operation Just Cause. The intervention aimed to depose then-president Manuel Noriega, who had become notorious for his involvement in drug trafficking. The operation resulted in significant casualties, with official figures citing 300 soldiers and 214 civilians dead, though some rights groups claim the death toll was closer to 1,000. The memories of this invasion remain vivid for many Panamanians.
Walkiria Chandler D’Orcy highlighted how Trump's comments resonate painfully with these historical events.
"It is not only his ignorance, but the light-hearted way Trump throws these comments around, including that Panama is controlled by China, that is insulting. There are still people [whose bodies] are yet to have been found after the invasion of Panama. It is an open wound and these comments are very hurtful," – Walkiria Chandler D’Orcy
For Panamanians like Corro, Trump's remarks are emblematic of an outdated mindset.
"He is a very arrogant man who thinks he can take whatever he wants," – Corro
"He cannot just decide: ‘I’m going to buy this country, I’m going to invade this one.’ The world is not some big flea market. It should not happen and we will not let it happen." – Corro
Despite these tensions, the Panama Canal Authority maintains its independence and adherence to market principles. Jorge Pérez commended Panama's management of the canal since taking control.
"For me and others who know this situation well, it’s baffling. In the 25 years since Panama acquired the control of the canal, they have done an exemplary job in developing an infrastructure of management that is free of corruption, transparent, independent of government interference and that operates on market principles," – Pérez
The current president of Panama, José Raúl Mulino, has pledged cooperation with the U.S., particularly regarding migration issues through the Darién Gap. However, Trump's comments have cast a shadow on diplomatic relations.