By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Despite President-elect Trump’s assertions, Panama Canal Administrator Ricaurte Vásquez confirmed the waterway remains under Panamanian control and open to all nations, rejecting claims of Chinese dominance and any potential US seizure. Vásquez emphasized the canal’s neutrality treaty, permitting only expedited passage for American warships, and highlighted the established, nondiscriminatory fee structure, which recently concluded a planned series of increases. He dismissed suggestions of US preferential treatment as leading to chaos, noting that current port operations involve various international entities, including US and Taiwanese companies. The canal’s continued operation, even during recent droughts and the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores Panama’s commitment to maintaining its vital role in global trade.
Read the original article here
The Panama Canal, a crucial artery of global trade, will remain under Panamanian control and open to all nations. This commitment ensures the canal’s continued operation as a vital international waterway, accessible to all countries regardless of political considerations. The efficient management and maintenance of the canal are paramount, focusing on the collection of fees and seamless operation, prioritizing a stable and predictable environment for international commerce. This approach represents a commitment to the canal’s function as a common carrier, facilitating global trade without political interference.
Any suggestion of otherwise is unsubstantiated and ignores the considerable investments Panama has made in modernizing and expanding the canal’s capacity and efficiency. This includes significant upgrades to infrastructure and operational procedures. This modernization goes beyond merely maintaining the existing infrastructure; it reflects a proactive strategy for enhanced global trade facilitation.
The notion that any nation should attempt to reclaim or seize control of the canal disregards the established international agreements and the sovereignty of Panama. Such actions would not only be a violation of international law, but would also severely disrupt global trade and create significant geopolitical instability. It’s crucial to respect established international norms and avoid actions that could undermine the stability of crucial global infrastructure.
The canal’s importance in global trade cannot be overstated; it significantly reduces transit times and costs for shipping goods between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Any attempt to interfere with its operation would have far-reaching economic consequences, impacting global supply chains and potentially increasing prices for consumers worldwide. Disrupting the flow of goods through this vital waterway would be detrimental to the economies of many nations.
Concerns about potential mismanagement are acknowledged. However, solutions to any challenges should be addressed through constructive dialogue and collaboration, not through unilateral actions or attempts to seize control. International cooperation is essential for addressing any potential issues affecting the canal’s operation and maintaining its role as a key component of global trade. Focusing on collaborative problem-solving is a far more effective approach than resorting to aggressive, unilateral actions.
The canal’s importance extends beyond economics; its geopolitical significance underscores the need for a cooperative approach to its management. Attempts to politicize its operation could lead to dangerous escalations and create unnecessary friction between nations. Maintaining its function as an open and neutral transit point requires the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders. A collaborative approach ensures the canal’s effectiveness and minimizes potential conflicts.
Claims that a single nation, or an individual, could somehow acquire control or significantly influence the canal’s operation are simply unrealistic. Panama’s sovereignty over this critical infrastructure is a well-established fact, and any attempts to challenge that are futile and disruptive. It is important to be realistic in assessing the potential impact of such actions on the global stage.
Finally, it is vital to remember the history of the Panama Canal. The agreement for the transfer of control to Panama was meticulously negotiated and represents a landmark moment in international relations. Disrespecting this agreement and undermining Panama’s sovereignty over the canal is unacceptable and will surely destabilize the delicate balance of global relations. The existing agreement should be upheld and respected.