President Donald Trump announced a significant step in his administration's efforts to counter China's influence in Central America. On Tuesday, he highlighted BlackRock's acquisition of two Panama Canal ports as a strategic move towards "reclaiming" the historic waterway for the United States. This deal aligns with the Trump administration's commitment to regaining control over the canal, a vital passage connecting the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean.
In a statement at the U.S. Capitol, Trump emphasized the historical significance of the Panama Canal, asserting that it was constructed "by Americans, for Americans." He criticized the 1977 treaty signed by then-President Jimmy Carter, which eventually ceded control of the canal to Panama in 1999. Trump described this agreement as having been "violated very severely."
"We didn't give it to China. We gave it to Panama. We're taking it back." – Donald Trump
The current administration has tasked U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio with spearheading efforts to regain influence over the canal. This initiative comes amid growing concerns about China's expanding presence in Latin America, particularly highlighted by Hong Kong's CK Hutchison's previous involvement in the region.
"Just today, a large American company announced they are buying both ports around the Panama Canal." – Donald Trump
The announcement of BlackRock's deal with CK Hutchison marks a critical development in this geopolitical contest. While Trump praised the deal as a positive step, BlackRock did not immediately respond to requests for comments regarding the acquisition.
Panama took control of the canal more than two decades ago, following nearly a century of American oversight. The canal, a marvel of engineering and a testament to American ingenuity, was originally built to facilitate global trade under U.S. management. However, Trump's remarks suggest a desire to revisit and potentially alter this longstanding arrangement.
"The Panama Canal was built by Americans, for Americans, not for other but others could use it." – Donald Trump
The recent deal underscores a broader strategy by the U.S. government to reassert its influence in strategic regions worldwide. Lawmakers in Washington have previously cited Chinese contracts in Panama as examples of Beijing's expanding reach into Central and South America, raising alarms about regional security and economic independence.