U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino and Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha to discuss pressing regional and global challenges, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations.
A key topic of discussion was the influence of the Chinese Communist Party over the Panama Canal area. Secretary Rubio conveyed President Trump’s preliminary determination that this level of control represents a security risk and a potential violation of the Treaty Concerning the Permanent Neutrality and Operation of the Panama Canal. He stressed that unless immediate changes are made, the U.S. may take necessary measures to safeguard its treaty rights.
The meeting also addressed ongoing efforts to curb illegal migration across the hemisphere. Secretary Rubio commended President Mulino’s commitment to a joint repatriation initiative, which has significantly reduced unlawful crossings through the Darien Gap. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to tackling transnational migration issues and improving regional stability.
Economic cooperation was another focal point, with Secretary Rubio advocating for a more favorable investment climate and fair competition for U.S. businesses in Panama. He emphasized the importance of ensuring a level playing field for American firms while fostering economic growth and prosperity in the region.
Additionally, Secretary Rubio lauded President Mulino’s leadership in supporting democracy in Venezuela, highlighting Panama’s role in advocating for a free and democratic society in the region.
Concluding the meeting, Secretary Rubio expressed gratitude for the fruitful discussions and reiterated the United States’ commitment to deepening ties with Panama. He underscored that the meeting marks a crucial step toward strengthening bilateral relations in alignment with President Trump’s strategic vision for the hemisphere.