Monday, December 23, 2024

Why Donald Trump looks for getting back Panama Canal?

 

When President Jimmy Carter foolishly gave it away, for One Dollar, during his term in Office, it was solely for Panama to manage, not China, or anyone else. It was likewise not given for Panama to charge the United States, its Navy, and corporations, doing business within our Country, exorbitant prices and rates of passage. Our Navy and Commerce have been treated in a very unfair and injudicious way. The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous, especially knowing the extraordinary generosity that has been bestowed to Panama by the U.S. This complete 'rip-off' of our Country will immediately stop. (Donald Trump, Truth Social)

 


Main Reasons

Donald Trump has expressed interest in the Panama Canal for several reasons, particularly related to trade, economics, and geopolitical strategy. Here are some key points that explain why he might see the canal as significant:

 

·         Trade Routes: The Panama Canal is a crucial shipping route that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, significantly reducing travel time for maritime trade. Control over or influence in the region could enhance trade efficiency and logistics.

·         Economic Interests: The canal is vital for international shipping, and any changes in its management or policies could have substantial economic implications for global trade. Trump may view potential investments or partnerships as opportunities to boost U.S. economic interests.

·         Geopolitical Strategy: The canal has historical significance in U.S. foreign policy. Strengthening ties or influence in Panama could enhance U.S. positioning in Latin America and counteract the influence of other nations, particularly China.

·         Infrastructure Investment: Trump has emphasized infrastructure development. Interest in the canal could align with broader goals of improving trade infrastructure to benefit the U.S. economy.

·         Tourism and Real Estate: The area around the canal is also a potential site for tourism and real estate development, which could appeal to Trump's business background.

 

Legal Grounds

 

The legal grounds surrounding any interest in the Panama Canal, particularly for a U.S. figure like Donald Trump, are complex and rooted in international treaties, national laws, and historical agreements. Here are some key points to consider:

 

·         Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty: Signed in 1903, this treaty granted the U.S. control over the Panama Canal Zone. However, this control was relinquished in 1999 when the canal was handed back to Panama under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties.

·         Sovereignty of Panama: Since the transfer, Panama has full sovereignty over the canal. Any actions taken by a foreign entity or individual regarding the canal would need to respect Panamanian laws and sovereignty.

·         International Trade Laws: Any proposals or actions involving the canal would also need to comply with international trade agreements and laws, which govern shipping and trade practices.

·         Investment and Business Opportunities: If Trump or any other individual were interested in investing in projects related to the canal, they would need to navigate Panamanian business regulations and possibly negotiate with the Panamanian government.

·         Diplomatic Relations: Any significant involvement in the canal would likely require diplomatic engagement with the Panamanian government, considering the historical context and ongoing bilateral relations.

 

History of US-Panama Relationship

 

The relationship between the United States and Panama has a complex history shaped by economic interests, strategic considerations, and political events. Here’s an overview:

 

Early Relations

·         19th Century: The U.S. showed interest in building a canal across Central America to facilitate trade and military movement. The idea of a canal through Panama gained traction, especially after the California Gold Rush.

 

The Panama Canal

·         French Attempt (1880s): The French, led by Ferdinand de Lesseps (builder of the Suez Canal), attempted to construct the canal but failed due to engineering problems and diseases like malaria and yellow fever.

·         U.S. Involvement (1904): After the French failure, the U.S. took over the project. The U.S. negotiated the Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty with Panama, granting the U.S. control of the Panama Canal Zone in exchange for financial compensation and support for Panama’s independence from Colombia.

 

Canal Operations

·         Construction and Opening (1914): The canal was completed and opened in 1914, becoming a crucial maritime route. The U.S. maintained control over the canal and its surrounding zone, leading to a significant American presence in Panama.

 

Growing Tensions

·         Nationalism and Anti-American Sentiment: Over the decades, Panamanian nationalism grew, fueled by resentment over U.S. control. There were numerous protests and demands for greater sovereignty.

 

Torrijos-Carter Treaties (1977)

·         Transfer of Control: These treaties, signed by U.S. President Jimmy Carter and Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos, established a timeline for the gradual transfer of control of the Panama Canal to Panama. The U.S. agreed to relinquish control by the end of 1999.

 

Post-Canal Handover

·         1999 Onwards: The handover was completed, and Panama assumed full control of the canal. The relationship continued to evolve, with cooperation on various issues, including trade and security.

 

Recent Developments

·         Trade and Economic Cooperation: The U.S. and Panama have maintained strong economic ties, including a free trade agreement signed in 2012.

·         Security Concerns: Both countries collaborate on security issues, particularly concerning drug trafficking and regional stability.