Newly appointed Secretary of State Marco Rubio is planning to travel to Panama for his first international trip as the nation’s top diplomat. The visit is expected to take place as early as next week, although specific details are still being finalized. President Donald Trump has repeatedly made statements about reclaiming control of the Panama Canal, including mentioning it during his inaugural address. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino strongly rejected Trump’s comments, asserting that the Panama Canal rightfully belongs to Panama.
The history of the Panama Canal dates back to the early 1900s when the U.S. built the waterway under President Theodore Roosevelt’s administration to facilitate the transit of commercial and military vessels between its coasts. Control of the canal was handed over to Panama on December 31, 1999, as per a treaty signed in 1977 by President Jimmy Carter. President Trump has made claims that China is currently operating the Panama Canal, and he has vowed to “take it back.” Rubio’s upcoming trip to Panama may also include visits to other Central American countries like Guatemala and El Salvador to address the issue of mass migration, which he highlighted as a top priority earlier this week.
The decision to prioritize engagement with Central America reflects Secretary Rubio’s strategy to focus on regional issues that directly impact the United States. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce emphasized the importance of engaging with neighboring countries to address migration, supply chains, and economic growth. This approach aligns with Rubio’s foreign policy agenda centered on strengthening America’s security, prosperity, and overall well-being. The trip is aimed at fostering relationships and addressing key challenges in the region, such as the influx of migrants and the need for sustainable economic development.
The announcement of Rubio’s upcoming trip to Panama was first reported by Politico and is part of a broader effort to engage with Central American nations. The visit is significant in light of recent tensions surrounding the Panama Canal and Trump’s assertions about reclaiming it. President Mulino’s firm stance on Panama’s ownership of the canal underscores the sensitivity of the issue and the importance of diplomacy in resolving disagreements. Rubio’s visit will provide an opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue with regional leaders and reaffirm America’s commitment to promoting stability and cooperation in the region.
As Secretary of State, Rubio’s trip to Panama represents a proactive approach to addressing foreign policy challenges and strengthening diplomatic ties with key allies. By focusing on Central America, Rubio aims to address pressing issues such as migration, economic development, and regional security. The trip underscores the United States’ commitment to engaging with its neighbors and promoting shared interests in the Western Hemisphere. Through strategic engagement and international cooperation, Rubio’s visit to Panama and other Central American countries will contribute to advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives, fostering regional stability, and strengthening partnerships in the region.
