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.
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