Former President Donald Trump’s recent claims about Chinese control of the Panama Canal have sparked controversy and denial from Panamanian officials, raising concerns about potential threats to U.S. interests in the region.
At a Glance
- Trump claimed Chinese soldiers operate the Panama Canal
- Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino denied Chinese military presence
- The canal is operated by a Panamanian government agency
- China is the second-largest user of the canal with significant investments in Panama
- Concerns arise over China’s growing influence in global shipping and ports
Trump’s Claims and Panama’s Response
Former President Donald Trump recently made headlines with his controversial statements regarding the Panama Canal. In a social media post, Trump declared, “Merry Christmas to all, including to the wonderful soldiers of China, who are lovingly, but illegally, operating the Panama Canal.” This assertion, however, was swiftly refuted by Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino, who emphatically denied any Chinese military presence at the canal.
President Mulino responded firmly to Trump’s claims, stating, “The canal is Panamanian and belongs to Panamanians. There’s no possibility of opening any kind of conversation around this reality.” He further claimed that there is no Chinese interference or participation in the canal’s operations, emphasizing Panama’s sovereignty over this vital waterway.
The US views China’s growing presence in the Western Hemisphere as a threat to its regional interests. In contrast to US concerns, China's cooperation with Panama and other Latin American countries is driven by mutual interests and local needs, fostering regional development and… pic.twitter.com/lCtSC5WZku
— Global Times (@globaltimesnews) December 27, 2024
The Reality of Canal Operations
The Panama Canal is operated by an agency of the Panamanian government. The canal, which sees up to 14,000 ships annually, has been under Panamanian control since 1999, when the United States transferred its authority. While China is the second-largest user of the canal and has significant investments in Panama, including the management of two ports by Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings, there is no evidence of direct Chinese control over canal operations.
Trump’s statements have reignited discussions about China’s growing influence in global shipping and ports. Chinese companies and the government have invested heavily in port construction worldwide, leveraging China’s position as the world’s largest exporter to gain significant influence over global shipping and port operations.
U.S. Concerns and Potential Implications
The controversy has highlighted ongoing concerns about potential threats to U.S. interests if China were to gain strategic control over the Panama Canal. Brian Hughes from the Trump-Vance transition team expressed this sentiment, stating, “Chinese control of the Panama Canal absolutely poses a national security threat to the U.S.” These concerns extend beyond military considerations to include economic implications, as control over the canal could potentially affect shipping rates and trade dynamics.
Trump’s rhetoric has also included threats to demand the canal’s return to U.S. control, citing “exorbitant” shipping rates. However, it’s important to note that recent increases in canal transit costs have been attributed to a historic drought affecting water levels, rather than any Chinese influence.
