In an interview at the International Economic Forum, Panama's economy and foreign affairs ministers addressed Donald Trump's claims regarding China's influence in the country. Economy Minister Felipe Chapman stressed China's limited impact on the Panamanian economy, while Foreign Minister Javier Martinez-Acha reaffirmed that the Panama Canal belongs solely to Panama. As the U.S. Secretary of State's visit nears, both ministers highlighted migration as a key topic, relating it to Trump's presidential campaign and the current administration’s efforts to manage transit through Panama.
Chapman emphasized during the interview that contrary to popular belief, China's economic role is minimal in Panama, stating, 'China's presence does not move the needle of the Panamanian economy.'
Martinez-Acha assured that the Panama Canal remains under Panamanian jurisdiction, stating, 'the Panama Canal is and will continue to be Panama's,' refuting Trump's claims of U.S. reversion.
On the issue of migration, Martinez-Acha noted, 'One of the main topics on the agenda will be migration, a central issue in Trump's successful presidential campaign.'
The foreign minister highlights the significance of Panama's role in migration routes: 'A major migration route crosses Panama from south to north, from Colombia to Costa Rica.'
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