Amidst President Trump's controversial statements about potentially seizing the Panama Canal due to Chinese influence, Secretary of State Marco Rubio began his foreign tour in Panama. Rubio, emphasizing the canal's significance to US trade, met with Panamanian leaders to discuss the issue. He aims to strengthen ties and clarify the US stance, especially in light of Trump's aggressive foreign policies and recent tariff implementations. Meanwhile, Panama's President Mulino firmly rejected any negotiations over canal ownership, highlighting the unresolved tensions.
The Panama Canal is a crucial link between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, with 40 percent of US container traffic going through it. Rubio underscored this during his visit.
Trump has refused to rule out military force to seize the Panama Canal, alleging that Panama has violated agreements while being influenced by Chinese investments.
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