Official press release or joint statement from the U.S. State Department or Panamanian government

Panama Files UN Complaint, Audits CK Hutchison Over Trump's Canal Claims

Jan 25, 2025, 11:00 PM

Panama has filed a formal complaint with the United Nations over U.S. President Donald Trump's statements about reclaiming the Panama Canal. Trump has alleged that China controls the canal and has criticized Panama's management, claiming unfair treatment of U.S. vessels despite neutral toll policies. Panama has firmly rejected these assertions, emphasizing its sovereignty over the canal, which has been under Panamanian control since 1999 following the Torrijos-Carter Treaty. The canal, a critical global trade route, generates significant revenue for Panama and operates under principles of neutrality, with no evidence supporting claims of Chinese control. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has sought international support to counter Trump's comments and reaffirmed the canal's importance to Panama's national identity. China has also denied any involvement in managing or operating the canal. The controversy comes amid broader U.S.-China tensions and concerns about Beijing's influence in Latin America. Panama has also initiated an audit of CK Hutchison, a Hong Kong-based company operating ports near the canal, and cited a UN Charter article prohibiting forceful actions by member states. Additionally, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to visit Panama soon.