PANAMA CITY, Panama (Reuters) – In a rare diplomatic move, the Panamanian government has lodged a formal complaint with the United Nations after US President Donald Trump’s recent remarks about potentially seizing control of the Panama Canal. The controversial statement, made during his inaugural address, has sparked widespread concern in Panama, leading to an urgent review of operations related to the canal’s port facilities.
The Panamanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, citing a violation of the UN Charter’s prohibition on the use of force against the territorial integrity of sovereign nations. The letter calls for the issue to be taken to the UN Security Council, emphasizing Panama’s sovereignty over the canal.
Trump’s statements, which accused China of “operating” the Panama Canal due to its significant involvement in nearby ports, reignited tensions surrounding the canal. He further commented, “We didn’t give it to China, we gave it to Panama. And we’re taking it back,” prompting immediate backlash from Panamanian officials.
In response, the Panamanian government announced an extensive audit into the Panama Ports Company, the entity overseeing the Balboa and Cristobal ports. This company is a subsidiary of Hutchison Ports, owned by the Hong Kong-based conglomerate CK Hutchison Holdings. The audit is aimed at ensuring transparency and compliance with the company’s agreements, specifically in relation to its revenue reporting and state contributions.
Panama’s President, Jose Raul Mulino, strongly rejected any notion of foreign interference in the canal, reaffirming the country’s control over the vital waterway. “The canal belongs to Panama, and it always will,” Mulino asserted, distancing the government from the claim of foreign influence.
The Panama Canal remains a significant international trade route, with the United States being its largest user, followed by China. Panama’s government has defended the canal’s neutral status, emphasizing its role as a key contributor to the nation’s economy, having generated over $30 billion in revenue since the handover from the United States in 1999.
