Marco Rubio will be traveling to Panama on Saturday for his first official trip abroad as part of his role in the U.S. Department of State. During his visit, he will address the implementation of President Donald Trump’s threat to reclaim control of the Panama Canal, following concerns over China’s growing influence in the nearby ports.
Last year, Trump stated that the U.S. would take back the Panama Canal, citing China’s expanding influence in the surrounding ports. While Panama’s president, José Raúl Molinar, rejected this threat, the Trump administration has begun applying pressure globally on the issue.
During his visit, Rubio will meet with Panamanian officials to clarify how the U.S. could restore its influence over the canal. Trump has claimed that Panama has been removing Chinese language signage to hide China’s influence and stressed that it is “appropriate” for the U.S. to regain control of the canal.
The Panama government has initiated an audit of the ports run by China’s Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings, which operates near both sides of the canal.
U.S. Stance Against China and Rubio’s Foreign Policy
Marco Rubio acknowledged that Panama’s government supports the U.S., but emphasized that the canal is a “national interest” for the United States and that China should not be allowed to control it.
The Panama Canal holds great significance for U.S. trade routes, with 40% of U.S. container traffic passing through it. Rubio mentioned that Trump’s policy includes intensifying pressure on other countries to align with U.S. interests, especially when it comes to the issue of deporting illegal immigrants.
What Might the Future Hold?
Although Rubio has minimized the use of military power, he has consistently supported the policies set by the President. He stated that this issue is an “important national interest,” and the U.S. must protect its own interests. However, it remains to be seen how seriously the U.S. intends to enforce this threat or if it is merely a tactic to exert pressure on China.
