Mon, 20 Jan 2025

Panama rejects Trump vow to 'take back' Panama Canal

Donald Trump claims China is operating the key US trade route but Panama says it belongs to them.

* Panama's president, Jose Raul Mulino, rejected US President Donald Trump's claim that the Panama Canal should be "taken back" by the US.
* Trump alleged in his inaugural speech that China was operating the canal and claimed it was a "big mistake" to hand control over to Panama in 1977.
* However, Mulino said there is no foreign interference with Panama's administration of the canal and that China has no role in its operation.
* The US built the canal in the early 20th century but signed a treaty in 1977 to gradually transfer control to Panama, which took full control in 1999.
* Around 40% of all US container ships pass through the canal, making it one of the country's most important trade routes.
* Trump has also previously suggested acquiring Greenland and wants to expand US territory and influence.
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