US President-elect Trump criticises Panama for charging "exorbitant prices" for canal
Donald Trump Demands Panama Canal Return
Washington DC, December 23
US President-elect Donald Trump issued a strong statement on Sunday, demanding the return of the Panama Canal to the United States. He emphasized the canal's importance as a vital national asset for the US economy and national security. Trump criticized former President Jimmy Carter for giving away the canal and warned against Chinese influence in the region.
Importance of the Panama Canal
Trump highlighted the canal's role in US commerce and naval operations, noting that over 70% of transits are linked to US ports. He described the canal as a modern wonder, built at great cost to the US, with 38,000 American lives lost during its construction.
Criticism of Panama
Trump accused Panama of charging exorbitant fees to the US Navy and businesses, calling it a "rip-off." He insisted that the canal should not fall into the wrong hands and warned Panama to adhere to the original agreement.
Historical Context
The Panama Canal, completed in 1914, was a significant US achievement, showcasing technological and economic power. Although it later strained US-Panamanian relations, it was initially seen as a major foreign policy success.
Doubts Revealed
Donald Trump
Donald Trump is a businessman and politician who served as the 45th President of the United States from 2017 to 2021. He is known for his strong opinions and often controversial statements.
Panama Canal
The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway in Panama that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean. It is important for international trade because it allows ships to avoid the long and dangerous route around the southern tip of South America.
Chinese Influence
Chinese influence refers to the impact or control that China might have in different parts of the world, including economic, political, or cultural aspects. In this context, it means China having a say or control over the Panama Canal.
Jimmy Carter
Jimmy Carter was the 39th President of the United States, serving from 1977 to 1981. He is known for his efforts in promoting peace and human rights, and he signed a treaty to transfer control of the Panama Canal from the US to Panama.
US Commerce
US commerce refers to the buying and selling of goods and services in the United States. The Panama Canal is important for US commerce because it helps ships move goods more quickly and cheaply between the east and west coasts of the US.
Naval Operations
Naval operations are activities carried out by a country's navy, which is the part of the military that operates at sea. The Panama Canal is important for naval operations because it allows military ships to move quickly between oceans.
38,000 American lives
This refers to the number of American workers who died during the construction of the Panama Canal. Building the canal was a difficult and dangerous task, and many people lost their lives due to diseases and accidents.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *